San Jacinto County, Texas Redeemable Tax Deed

Introduction

San Jacinto County sits in East Texas on the western edge of the Piney Woods. The county was formed in 1870 and named after the Battle of San Jacinto, a key event in Texas history. Coldspring, the county seat, has a courthouse square and historic churches that reflect the area’s long ties to timber, farming and ranching. This article guides investors through the county’s tax‐sale process and explains why redeemable tax deeds in this rural county can be a good way to invest in property.

What Is a Redeemable Tax Deed?

Texas uses a redeemable tax deed system. When property taxes are not paid, the county obtains a judgment and sells the property at public auction. The winning bidder receives a deed but the original owner has a chance to redeem it. Under state law the redemption period is six months for most properties and two years for homesteads or land used for agriculture. To redeem, the delinquent owner must reimburse the sale amount plus a redemption premium (25 percent in the first year or 50 percent in the second year). If the property is not redeemed within the period, the investor owns it free of the tax lien.

Important Details

Item	Details
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable tax deed; bidder receives a deed subject to redemption
Typical Sale Date	First Tuesday of the month (sales must occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.); county notices sometimes set the sale at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
Redemption Period	6 months for non‑homestead property; 2 years for homesteads or agricultural land
Interest/Redemption Premium	25 % of purchase price if redeemed in the first year; 50 % if redeemed in the second year
Bid Procedure	Oral bidding starts at minimum bid (taxes, penalties, interest and costs); highest bid wins
Deposit	No formal deposit, but bidders must show funds and pay the full amount immediately (cash or cashier’s check)

Note: Always check current notices for exact dates and times. At the time of writing, county foreclosure notices list auctions on the first Tuesday at 1 p.m. with a 10 a.m. earliest sale time.

Fun Facts About San Jacinto County

• History: San Jacinto County was created in 1870 from parts of Polk, Walker, Trinity and Montgomery counties and named after the Battle of San Jacinto.
  
• Population: The county has roughly 29 thousand residents. A demographic report estimates a 2024 population of 29,326 with a median age of 45 and a median household income around $59,526.
  
• Economy: The county has strong ties to timber, cattle ranching and poultry. Logging and milling were major industries in the 19th century and agribusiness remains a leading sector.
  
• Location: San Jacinto County lies within the East Texas timber belt and borders the Trinity River. Much of the county is forested and includes parts of Sam Houston National Forest and Lake Livingston.
  
• Community: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension programs teach local youth modern farming and animal husbandry, highlighting the county’s blend of tradition and innovation.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

San Jacinto County offers outdoor recreation and a modest, rural economy:

• Attractions: Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Sam Houston National Forest, Lake Livingston for fishing and boating, and local parks. Coldspring’s historic courthouse square showcases the county’s heritage.
  
• Transportation: Texas State Highway 150 and U.S. Highway 59 (future Interstate 69) provide access, while county roads connect small communities. Houston’s airports are about 70 miles south.
  
• Economy: Forestry, cattle ranching, poultry farming and tourism support the local economy. Small manufacturing and service businesses serve residents and visitors.
  
• Community Life: Residents enjoy 4‑H events, rodeos and festivals. The county’s rural lifestyle appeals to people seeking space and outdoor living.
  

Why This County Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

San Jacinto County’s combination of affordable land, growing population and proximity to Houston make it attractive for investors. Rural properties often sell for less than market value, yet the county is within commuting distance of the Houston metro area. The redeemable tax deed system offers high returns with structured risk. If the owner redeems, the investor receives the purchase price plus a 25 % or 50 % premium. If the owner fails to redeem, the investor acquires property that may be improved or resold.

Auction Process for Tax Lien/Deed Sales

Tax sales in San Jacinto County follow Texas state law. A constable or sheriff conducts the auction at the county courthouse. Notices are posted on the county website and in a local newspaper. Sales must be on the first Tuesday of the month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.. Local notices often state that the sale will begin at 10 a.m. and that bidding will start at 1 p.m. with no more than three hours delay.

How the Auction Works

1. Posting of Notice: A judgment is obtained against the delinquent owner. A notice of sale is posted at the courthouse and on the county website. The notice lists the legal description, minimum bid and the date and time of the sale.
   
2. Registration: The county requires bidders to register and obtain a No‑Tax‑Due Certificate. According to the county’s resale list, “all private resale buyers must have a No Tax Due Certificate/Bidder Application on file with the tax assessor-collector”. The certificate costs $10 and confirms that the bidder does not owe delinquent taxes.
   
3. Arrive Early: Registration usually opens 30 minutes before the sale. Bring a valid ID and proof of funds. Some counties require a power of attorney for bidders representing a business.
   
4. Bidding: Bidding is oral and competitive. The minimum bid equals the delinquent taxes, penalties, interest and costs or the appraised value, whichever is less. Bidders call out their bids until the highest bid is reached.
   
5. Payment: Payment is due immediately. The county accepts cash or cashier’s checks. If you win, you must pay the full amount on the day of the sale.
   

Deed Issuance: The constable issues a Sheriff’s or Constable’s Deed without warranty, subject to redemption. The deed is recorded after the bidder obtains the No‑Tax‑Due certificate.

Maximum Potential Returns and Expected Returns on San Jacinto County Tax Deeds

Investors in Texas tax sales often seek high yields. If a property is redeemed, the investor receives the purchase price plus a 25 % premium if redemption occurs within one year and 50 % if redemption occurs in the second year. For example, a $10,000 investment could yield $2,500 in six months. If the property is not redeemed, the investor acquires the property free of the tax lien. Returns depend on the purchase price, the property’s market value and whether redemption occurs. Investors should remember that they are responsible for taxes that become delinquent after the judgment and for any property maintenance costs.

Open to All Investors / Foreign Investor Participation

Texas law does not restrict tax deed sales to residents. Both local and international investors can participate. However, a bidder must not owe delinquent property taxes and must provide a valid identification and the No‑Tax‑Due Certificate. Foreign investors should ensure they can attend the live auction, since online bidding is not currently available. It is wise to engage local counsel for closing and to understand any federal tax implications. Participation by out‑of‑state and international investors shows that San Jacinto County is open to global investment opportunities.

What Due Diligence Entails

Steps for Due Diligence

Before bidding, investors should:

• Research the property: Use the appraisal district’s database to confirm the property’s legal description, assessed value and location. Visit the site from a public road to gauge condition and access.
  
• Check title records: Review deeds, plats and judgments at the county clerk’s office to identify liens or easements. Properties are sold “as is” and may have unknown issues.
  
• Estimate costs: Calculate future property taxes, insurance and renovation expenses. Remember that you must pay any taxes that accrue after the judgment.
  
• Review zoning and restrictions: Ensure the intended use is allowed and check for homeowner association fees.
  

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Skipping research can lead to costly surprises. A property might be landlocked, have environmental problems or carry unpaid liens. You could overpay for a parcel worth far less than the minimum bid. Always remember that the deed comes without warranty. Failing to obtain the required No‑Tax‑Due Certificate can also delay or nullify your purchase. Proper due diligence helps avoid these pitfalls and ensures an informed investment decision.

Why San Jacinto County Is a Top Choice for Tax Deed Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

San Jacinto County sits near Houston yet retains low land prices. The rural economy—driven by timber, cattle and poultry—keeps property values moderate while the county’s population grows steadily. Investors can acquire acreage at affordable prices and benefit from the 25 %–50 % redemption premium. Texas has no state income tax, which can make profits more attractive.

Real Estate Market Overview

Housing in San Jacinto County is a mix of lakeside subdivisions, rural homes and undeveloped land. The county’s proximity to Lake Livingston and Sam Houston National Forest attracts buyers seeking recreation and second homes. Demand is increasing as people look for affordable property within reach of Houston. Investors who acquire tax deeds may be able to renovate and sell homes to retirees or commuters.

Conclusion

San Jacinto County offers investors a chance to purchase real estate through the redeemable tax deed process. Auctions are usually held on the first Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the San Jacinto County Courthouse in Coldspring. Bidders must obtain a No‑Tax‑Due Certificate and register before the sale. Successful bidders pay the full amount on the day of the auction and receive a deed subject to the owner’s right of redemption. Redemption periods range from six months to two years and yield a 25 %–50 % premium. With low property prices, growing demand and strong returns, San Jacinto County stands out as an attractive county for tax deed investors. However, investors must perform thorough due diligence and seek professional advice before bidding.

Pro Tips

1. Arrive Early: Get to the courthouse at least 30 minutes before the sale to complete registration and ask questions.
   
2. Bring Cash or Cashier’s Check: Personal checks are not accepted. Have the full amount readily available.
   
3. Check for Withdrawn Properties: Listings can change up to the day of the sale. Confirm the final list with the county or the law firm before bidding.
   
4. Inspect from Afar: Properties are sold by legal description; do not trespass. View the property from public roads and note any visible issues.
   
5. Plan for Redemption: Assume the property may redeem. Calculate your return based on the 25 % or 50 % premium and plan how to reinvest those funds.
   

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to renovate the property after purchase? During the redemption period you can maintain the property but major renovations should wait until redemption passes. Minor repairs and lawn care may be reimbursed when calculating the redemption premium.
   
2. How do I clear title after the redemption period? After redemption expires, investors often file a quiet title action to remove remaining clouds and obtain title insurance. Consult a local attorney for this process.
   
3. Are there any other liens on tax sale properties? Tax deeds may not extinguish certain liens (e.g., city mowing liens or IRS liens). Research the title and consult legal counsel before bidding.
   
4. Can I finance my purchase? Tax sales require immediate payment; conventional financing is usually not possible. Some investors use private funds or lines of credit.
   

What if the property is occupied? Occupants have rights. After you receive the deed, you can offer a lease or pursue eviction through legal channels. Always follow Texas eviction laws.

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

Need a hand?

San Jacinto County tax‑sale listings are available via our Auction Calendar. Use our free resources to guide your research. If you’d like to get personal sentiment or direction on what to do next, just go ahead and book a call.

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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