Real County, Texas Redeemable Tax Deeds: A Guide for Investors

Introduction to Real County and This Guide

Real County sits in the Texas Hill Country. It has rolling hills, clear rivers, and a friendly pace of life. Only a few thousand people live here, so the area feels rural and open. Investors who are interested in tax‑foreclosed property often look toward Real County because of its small size and simple auction process. This guide explains how the county conducts tax sales and shows what makes the area unique.

What Is a Redeemable Tax Deed?

Texas uses a redeemable tax deed system. When property owners fail to pay taxes, the county can foreclose on the tax lien and sell the property at a public auction. The winning bidder receives a sheriff’s deed but the former owner has a limited time to redeem the property. If the former owner redeems it, they must pay the auction price plus a penalty, which is paid to the investor. In Real County the same rules apply because the county follows state law.

Important Details

Feature	Summary
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable tax deeds (tax lien foreclosure)
Typical Sale Date	First Tuesday of the month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Redemption Period	Two years for homestead/agricultural property, 180 days for other property
Interest/Redemption Premium	25 % in the first year; 50 % in the second year
Bid Procedure	Oral bidding; sale goes to highest cash bidder. Minimum bid equals delinquent taxes and costs.
Deposit	No deposit required but bidders must pay in full with cash or cashier’s check within two hours of the sale.
Contact & Email	County Tax Assessor Terrie Pendley at [email protected]; Sheriff Nathan Johnson at [email protected]

Fun Facts About Real County

• Small and historic – Real County was formed from parts of Edwards, Bandera and Kerr counties in 1913. The county seat is Leakey.
  
• Tiny population – The 2020 census recorded only about 2,758 residents, making it one of the least‑populated counties in Texas.
  
• Angora goats and ranching – In the early 1900s, ranching overtook lumber and farming, and raising Angora goats became an important part of the local economy.
  
• Rivers and tourism – The county lies along the Frio and Nueces rivers and promotes itself as a tourist and hunting destination. Tourism helps support the local economy alongside ranching and small businesses.
  
• Scenic highways – Major routes include U.S. Highway 83 and State Highways 41 and 55. The roads wind through the Hill Country, providing scenic drives and access to recreational sites.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

• Real County Historical Museum – Located in Leakey, this museum preserves pioneer life with a recreated log‑cabin parlor, kitchen and bedroom. Exhibits include ranch relics, a hand‑powered wool and mohair shearing machine and early jail cells
  
• Lost Maples State Natural Area – Though partly in neighboring Bandera County, this natural area is easily reached from Real County. It is known for its fall foliage, hiking trails and bird‑watching.
  
• Garner State Park & Frio River – Nearby Garner State Park offers camping, swimming and paddle boating along the Frio River, which runs through the county. The river also draws anglers and kayakers.
  
• Economy – Real County remains a ranching region with many large tracts of land. Tourism and hunting have become major revenue sources. Real estate market data shows a median price per acre of around $8,673 and median lot size of about 60 acres, while listings often stay on the market for many months.
  

Why Real County Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

Real County’s redeemable tax deeds combine high penalty rates with relatively low entry costs. Winning bidders receive a 25 % return if the owner redeems within the first year and 50 % if redemption occurs in the second year. Because land values are modest and many parcels are large, investors may obtain acreage at prices well below market value. The county’s tourism‑driven economy and steady demand for recreational property also help support resale values.

Auction Process for Tax Lien/Deed Sales

The county conducts live, in‑person auctions. Real County does not sell tax certificates online.

How the Auction Works

1. Notice and location – Notice of sale is posted at the courthouse and on the county’s website. Texas law requires sales to occur on the first Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and allows a Wednesday sale if the first Tuesday falls on January 1 or July 4.
   
2. Registration – All bidders must register with the sheriff’s representative before the sale. Registration usually opens around 9:45 a.m. at the auction site. Bidders present a valid driver’s license or government‑issued ID.
   
3. Minimum bid – Each property has a minimum bid equal to the delinquent taxes, interest, penalties and court costs. Bid sheets are available at the appraisal district or from the county’s law firm.
   
4. Bidding – The sheriff calls each property in order. Bidders openly call out bids in increments of their choice. The highest bid at or above the minimum wins. Business entities must provide a power of attorney to bid.
   
5. Payment – Successful bidders must pay the full purchase price with cash or a cashier’s check within two hours of the sale. Personal checks are not accepted.
   
6. Deed and redemption – The sheriff issues a deed without warranty. The deed does not guarantee clear title, and the property remains subject to redemption for a limited period.
   

For questions about the sale schedule or to obtain a list of properties, bidders should contact the Real County Tax Assessor‑Collector, Terrie Pendley, by email at [email protected] or the sheriff’s office at [email protected] These contacts can provide up‑to‑date information on upcoming auctions, strike‑off lists and general tax sale procedures.

Maximum Potential Returns and Expected Returns on Real County Tax Deeds

Texas law sets generous redemption premiums. If a former owner redeems homestead or agricultural property within one year, the investor earns a 25 % premium on top of the purchase price. Redemption during the second year yields a 50 % premium. For non‑homestead property redeemed within 180 days, the premium is 25 %. These returns are considerably higher than interest rates on certificates in many other states. However, investors must consider holding costs, taxes and the possibility that a property may not redeem. If no redemption occurs, profits depend on the property’s resale value, which can vary with market conditions.

Open to All Investors and Foreign Participation

Real County does not restrict bidders by residency. Anyone age 18 or older may register and bid in person as long as they can pay in U.S. funds. International buyers may need a tax identification number and should plan to be present or authorize a representative with a power of attorney. Because titles are conveyed by sheriff’s deed without warranty, both domestic and foreign investors should obtain legal advice before bidding. The county’s tourism‑driven economy and low population density make it attractive to out‑of‑state investors seeking recreational or ranch property. Many parcels are large tracts of land, making Real County appealing to buyers from across the globe.

Importance of Due Diligence

Due diligence is essential before bidding at a tax sale. Investors should:

• Verify tax status – Check with the appraisal district to confirm the amount of taxes owed and that the property will be offered for sale.
  
• Research the property – Review legal descriptions, survey maps and deed records to identify boundaries, easements and liens. Properties are sold “as is,” and title is not guaranteed.
  
• Inspect from public areas – Drive by the property to assess location, terrain and improvements. Do not trespass on private land.
  
• Estimate market value – Compare recent land sales and consider factors like road access, utilities and zoning.
  
• Plan for costs – Factor in recording fees, future taxes, potential quiet title actions and maintenance expenses.
  

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Failing to research a property can lead to unpleasant surprises. Hidden liens, environmental issues, lack of access or unusable land could turn a seemingly good deal into a costly mistake. Because sheriff’s deeds contain no warranties, investors bear the risk of title defects. Without proper research you may buy a property that cannot be built on or resold. Always consult an attorney or title professional when in doubt.

Buying Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) Deeds in Real County

Some properties offered at auction may not receive any bids. When this happens, the property is “struck off” to the county. After the auction, Real County can sell these properties over the counter. Interested buyers should contact the county tax assessor‑collector’s office to ask about available struck‑off properties.

How to Purchase OTC Deeds

To buy a struck‑off property, submit a written offer to the county. The county sets a minimum price, usually equal to delinquent taxes and costs. Once the commissioners court approves the sale, the buyer pays in full and receives a deed. There is no competitive bidding, so the price is fixed. Buyers still need to conduct due diligence and should confirm whether redemption rights apply.

Benefits of OTC Purchases

• No bidding competition – Buyers negotiate directly with the county, avoiding auction pressure.
  
• Fixed price – The price is set by the county, often close to the amount owed.
  
• Time to research – You can perform due diligence without the rush of auction day.
  

Why Real County Is a Top Choice for Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Real County’s small population and limited development mean there is less competition at tax sales. The local economy is driven by tourism, hunting and ranching, so there is consistent demand for recreational and pasture land. Tax deeds in Texas provide high redemption premiums of 25 % to 50 %, making potential returns attractive. Investors can also benefit from relatively low property taxes compared with urban areas.

Real Estate Market Overview

Market data shows that land listings in Real County have a median lot size of about 60 acres and a median price per acre around $8,673. Properties often remain on the market for several months, giving investors time to evaluate resale potential. The combination of large parcels, scenic beauty and recreational demand makes Real County’s market appealing for both long‑term holds and quick resales.

Conclusion

Real County may be small, but its tax deed auctions offer outsized opportunity. Sales are held on the first Tuesday of each month at the courthouse between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with registration opening around 9:45 a.m.. Investors need to bring cash or a cashier’s check and be prepared to pay immediately. Winning bidders receive a deed without warranty and should expect a redemption period of up to two years for homestead and farm property or 180 days for other property. Because redemption premiums are high—25 % to 50 %—returns can be substantial. The county’s rural charm, tourism‑driven economy and affordable land values further enhance its appeal. By performing thorough due diligence, visiting the property and understanding state law, investors can confidently participate in Real County’s tax deed auctions.

Pro Tips

1. Arrive early – Registration begins shortly before the auction. Arriving by 9:30 a.m. ensures that you have time to register and review last‑minute updates.
   
2. Bring multiple cashier’s checks – Since exact change is required, bring several checks in different denominations. That way you can combine them to match your winning bid.
   
3. Use the redemption premium to your advantage – If you buy a homestead property, redemption could earn you 25 % in only a few months. Consider focusing on parcels likely to redeem.
   
4. Inspect from a distance – Many properties are rural and fenced. View from public roads and note access, terrain and utilities before bidding.
   
5. Plan for after‑sale costs – Budget for recording fees, future taxes and potential legal work to quiet title. These costs can impact your overall return.
   

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Do I need to clear title after the redemption period?
Yes. Sheriff’s deeds come without warranty. Even after redemption expires, title may have defects. Investors often file a quiet title action or obtain title insurance before selling or building on the property.

Q2: Can I occupy or improve the property during the redemption period?
Under Texas law the purchaser has the right of use and possession during the redemption period. You may maintain or even rent the property, but any improvements are made at your own risk. If the former owner redeems, they must reimburse reasonable maintenance costs.

Q3: Are there liens or mortgages after the sale?
The tax sale usually wipes out liens of defendants named in the judgment. However, federal tax liens or liens recorded later may survive. Always research title and consult an attorney.

Q4: How can I finance a tax deed purchase?
The county requires immediate payment in cash or by cashier’s check. Traditional mortgage financing is not available. Investors often use personal funds, lines of credit or hard money loans.Q5: Can I resell the property before redemption ends?
Yes. You can sell at any time, but the new buyer takes subject to the remainder of the redemption period. Many investors wait until redemption expires before marketing the property to avoid complications.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• How to Profit from Texas’s Redeemable Deeds
• Let’s talk about redeemable tax deeds and how you can profit from them!
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 
• Learn How to maximize profits at the Texas Tax Sales

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About Dustin Hahn

Dustin Hahn is a Tax Lien & Deed investor with over 22 years of experience and hundreds of deals under his belt. He created Tax Lien School.com to help you buy Tax Deeds up to 90% off mortgage free and earn up to 36% ROI with Tax Liens. This site was voted the “Most Useful Resource” for new investors. Dustin’s YouTube Channel is the #1 Channel on Tax Liens & Deeds with over 98,000 Subscribers and 3600 videos to help you start. “The Best Time To Start Real Estate Investing Was 20 Years Ago, The Second Best Time Is TODAY!”

20+yrs

5–10deals/mo

2009TLS founded