Scurry County, Texas Tax Deed – Your Guide to Investing in Local Tax Sales

Introduction to Scurry County and This Guide

Scurry County sits in west‑central Texas with the small city of Snyder as its county seat. The county has roughly 16,932 residents and spans about 908 square miles. Its economy features oil, agriculture and a growing retail sector. This guide explains how Scurry County handles tax deed sales and what investors need to know. You will learn the typical auction schedule, registration requirements, bidding rules, redemption periods and how to buy properties that remain unsold at auction. All information comes from official county sources and state‑approved tax sale references. Keep reading to understand how these sales work so you can invest with confidence.

What Is a Tax Deed Sale?

Texas counties do not issue tax lien certificates; instead they sell tax deeds. When a property owner fails to pay property taxes, the county can foreclose on the parcel after a lawsuit for tax lien foreclosure is filed and a court judgment authorises the sale. The auction conveys a sheriff’s deed or constable’s deed to the high bidder, subject to the property owner’s right of redemption. A tax deed sale clears most junior liens but does not guarantee title, so investors should perform due diligence. If no one bids at the auction, the parcel is “struck off” to the taxing entities and later offered as trust property or over‑the‑counter (OTC) real estate.

Important Details at a Glance

Detail	Summary
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deeds – Scurry County sells a sheriff or constable’s deed subject to redemption.
Typical Sale Date	First Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Texas law requires tax sales to occur on this day and time range. Recent notices list auctions on October 7, November 4 and December 2.
Redemption Period	Two years for homestead or agricultural property and 180 days for other property. Redeemers pay a 25 % premium in the first year and 50 % in the second year on homesteads; non‑homestead parcels incur a 25 % premium.
Interest or Premium	Buyers earn a flat premium from the redemption amount (25–50 %) rather than monthly interest.
Bid Procedure	Live auction on courthouse steps. Bidding starts at the lesser of taxes owed or the property’s appraised value. Highest cash bid wins; payment is usually due immediately or by early afternoon. Registration with the tax assessor may be required.
Deposit	Many Texas counties require bidders to register and provide a refundable deposit (often US$100–US$500) prior to the sale. Scurry County follows similar practices; contact the tax office for exact amount.

Fun Facts About Scurry County

• History and Name: Scurry County was created in 1876 and named after Confederate general William R. Scurry. It was organised in 1884.
  
• Population: The county has around 16,900 people, with Snyder as the largest town.
  
• Geography: The county covers approximately 908 square miles, mostly rolling plains.
  
• Transportation: Major highways include U.S. Highway 84, U.S. Highway 180, State Highway 208 and State Highway 350. Snyder also has Winston Field Airport.
  
• Heritage Village: Heritage Village at 900 East Coliseum Drive preserves historic structures, artifacts and replica buildings that show how early settlers lived.
  
• Economy: Oil production (SACROC Unit), agriculture (cotton and livestock), and services support the local economy. Western Texas College in Snyder also contributes to education and employment.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

Scurry County offers several attractions and amenities that can appeal to residents and investors:

• Attractions: Visitors can explore Heritage Village, take in local history at the Scurry County Museum, or enjoy Towle Memorial Park. The county hosts the White Buffalo Days festival and features proximity to Lake J.B. Thomas for water recreation.
  
• Transportation: The county seat of Snyder sits at the intersection of U.S. Highways 84 and 180, providing access to Lubbock, Abilene and the Permian Basin. Winston Field Airport offers general aviation service for private aircraft and business flights.
  
• Economy: Oil and gas extraction remains a key industry, complemented by wind energy development, agriculture and ranching. Retail trade and health care services are growing thanks to Snyder’s regional hub status.
  
• Community: Residents enjoy a friendly rural atmosphere with public schools, Western Texas College, outdoor sports and hunting opportunities.
  

Why Scurry County Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

Scurry County’s mix of energy production, agriculture and steady population growth creates a stable real estate market. Investors can purchase tax deeds at auctions where minimum bids start at the taxes owed, often below market value. Texas’s flat redemption premium of 25–50 % can yield high returns with limited exposure, since the investment is secured by real property and the county government collects the penalties. With a two‑year redemption for homesteads and 180 days for other properties, investors can recoup their investment plus premium quickly compared to other long‑term investments. The county also offers trust properties for direct purchase, expanding opportunities beyond the auction.

Auction Process for Tax Deed Sales

How the Auction Works

Tax deed auctions in Scurry County follow procedures set by the Texas Property Tax Code and local commissioners’ court. Here is how it typically works:

1. Notification: When a property becomes delinquent, the county’s delinquent tax attorneys file a lawsuit and obtain a court judgment authorising a sale. Notices of upcoming sales are posted at the courthouse and online through the county clerk’s foreclosure page. Recent notices list properties scheduled for October 7, November 4 and December 2.
   
2. Registration: The commissioners’ court can require bidders to register with the tax assessor‑collector before the sale. Registration generally opens shortly before the auction, often around 9:00 a.m., and may require a deposit, government‑issued ID and a statement showing no delinquent taxes due. Contact the Scurry County Tax Office to confirm requirements.
   
3. Location and Time: Auctions take place live on the north steps of the Scurry County Courthouse (1806 25th Street, Snyder) and start between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month. Arrive early to review listings and complete registration.
   
4. Bidding: The officer (sheriff or constable) reads each property’s legal description and announces the minimum bid, which is the lesser of the judgment amount or the appraised value. Bidders call out their offers in increments until the highest bid is reached. Some counties allow “bidding down the premium”; in Scurry County bids are generally for the total price.
   
5. Payment: The winning bidder must pay in full, usually by cash or cashier’s check, immediately after the sale or within a set period (often two hours). Failing to pay can result in forfeiture and the property being re‑auctioned.
   

Deed and Redemption: The buyer receives a sheriff’s or constable’s deed. Redemption rights allow the former owner to reclaim the property within two years for homestead or agricultural land and 180 days for other property by paying the purchase price plus a premium (25–50 %). The redemption period starts when the deed is recorded. During the redemption period, the investor has a lien rather than full ownership.

Maximum Potential Returns and Expected Returns

Investors in Scurry County can earn attractive returns compared with other fixed‑income investments. Because Texas tax deeds carry a flat premium rather than an annual interest rate, returns depend on when (or if) the property is redeemed. For homestead and agricultural property, the redemption premium is 25 % of the purchase price if redeemed during the first year and 50 % if redeemed in the second year. For non‑homestead property, the former owner has 180 days to redeem and must pay a 25 % premium. For example, a $10,000 bid on a non‑homestead property would yield $2,500 if redeemed within 180 days. If the property is not redeemed, the investor gains ownership and can hold, rent or sell the property for potentially higher returns.

Returns may vary depending on the property value, competition and redemption outcomes. Investors should consider the risk of unknown liens, title issues and the cost of evicting occupants. However, the combination of high redemption premiums, relatively short redemption periods and the possibility of acquiring property at a low price make Scurry County tax deeds an appealing investment.

Open to All Investors / Foreign Investor Participation

Texas law allows both residents and non‑residents to participate in tax deed auctions. Individuals, partnerships, LLCs and foreign investors may bid as long as they do not owe delinquent taxes in the county and meet registration requirements. In Scurry County, you must be at least 18 years old and cannot owe unpaid fines or have code violations on other properties. International investors should consult legal and tax advisors regarding U.S. real estate ownership, but there are no explicit restrictions on foreign participation. By diversifying across counties and states, global investors can tap into Texas’s strong property market and stable legal framework.

Importance of Due Diligence in Scurry County Tax Deed Investing

What Due Diligence Entails

Smart investing starts with thorough research. Before bidding, investors should:

• Inspect the Property: Visit the site or use satellite imagery to evaluate location, neighborhood condition and access. Verify that the property exists and is not landlocked.
  
• Check Title and Liens: Obtain a title search to identify mortgages, IRS liens or municipal code liens. Some liens may survive the tax sale, making the buyer responsible.
  
• Review Appraisal Data: Compare the county’s appraised value with market values. Understand if the property is homestead (longer redemption) or non‑homestead.
  
• Estimate Repairs: Factor in potential repair costs, demolition or environmental issues.
  
• Know the Rules: Review Texas Property Tax Code and county policies. Ensure you have funds for the entire bid and additional fees.
  

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Investing without research can lead to costly surprises. Buyers may end up with property that has structural damage, is landlocked or has environmental contamination. Hidden liens such as municipal fines or IRS liens could reduce profit or cause legal complications. Overpaying for a parcel that later redeems can diminish returns. Therefore, performing due diligence is essential to minimise risk and maximise rewards. Consult a real‑estate attorney or title company if needed.

Buying Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) Properties in Scurry County

How to Purchase OTC Properties

If a tax deed property does not sell at auction, it is struck off to the taxing entities and becomes trust property. The City of Snyder and Scurry County partner with Texas Communities Group (texascg.com) to offer these parcels for direct sale. Anyone over 18 can submit a bid online at texascg.com or in person at the Scurry County Tax Office. Bids must meet the requirements: bidders cannot owe delinquent taxes, unpaid fines or have code enforcement penalties. If the bid is accepted and payment (plus nominal recording fees) is made, the property is deeded to the buyer. There is no auction competition and no redemption period because the sale occurs after foreclosure.

Benefits of OTC Purchases

Purchasing trust properties over the counter offers several advantages:

• No Bidding Wars: You set your own bid based on your budget and property value, avoiding competitive auction bidding.
  
• Clear Price and Process: If your bid is accepted, you pay a fixed amount and immediately receive the deed.
  
• Redevelopment Potential: Trust properties often include vacant lots or abandoned structures ripe for redevelopment, such as building a garage or rental home.
  
• Community Benefit: Returning property to the tax roll helps rejuvenate neighborhoods and supports local services.
  

Why Scurry County Is a Top Choice for Tax Deed Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Scurry County benefits from diverse energy production (oil, natural gas and wind), strong agricultural output and a solid education sector via Western Texas College. A favourable tax environment and low cost of living attract families and businesses. The county’s strategic location along major highways provides access to West Texas markets and the Permian Basin. Low delinquency rates mean less competition, and the county welcomes investors who can return properties to productive use.

Real Estate Market Overview

Property values in Scurry County are modest compared with metropolitan areas, making entry costs low for investors. Residential properties in Snyder average below national medians, while rural tracts offer large acreage at affordable prices. Rental demand comes from oilfield workers, college students and families seeking affordable housing. With new energy developments and infrastructure improvements, property values could appreciate over time, enhancing returns for tax deed investors.

Conclusion

Scurry County’s tax deed sales provide an opportunity to acquire real estate at below‑market prices while earning high redemption premiums. Auctions occur on the first Tuesday of each month at the Scurry County Courthouse between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.. Investors should register with the tax office, bring cash or cashier’s checks and be prepared to pay the full amount promptly. Remember that homestead and agricultural properties carry a two‑year redemption period, while other property redeems in 180 days. Redemption premiums of 25–50 % can yield significant returns. For unsold parcels, consider purchasing trust properties over the counter through Texas Communities Group. Always conduct due diligence to assess property condition, title status and market value before bidding. With careful research and patience, Scurry County tax deed investments can be a rewarding addition to your portfolio.

Pro Tips for Scurry County Tax Deed Investing

• Arrive Early: Get to the courthouse by 9 a.m. to register, review the auction list and check property locations. Early arrival ensures you don’t miss registration cut‑off.
  
• Verify Your Tax Status: Obtain a written statement from the tax assessor‑collector showing you owe no delinquent taxes; you cannot receive a deed without it.
  
• Set a Budget: Determine maximum bids based on market value, redemption premium and repair costs. Stick to your budget to avoid overpaying.
  
• Check Zoning and Land Use: Contact the City of Snyder or county planning office to ensure your intended use (e.g., residential, commercial) complies with zoning.
  
• Network with Locals: Attend county meetings or connect with local realtors and contractors to learn about upcoming developments and property values.
  

FAQs About Scurry County Tax Deeds

Q: What happens if the property owner files bankruptcy before the sale?
If the owner files for bankruptcy before the auction, the sale may be postponed or cancelled. Always check the docket for updates on sale day.

Q: Do I need an attorney to buy a tax deed?
You are not required to hire an attorney, but consulting one can help you understand title issues, redemption rights and eviction procedures.

Q: Can I inspect the property before bidding?
Yes. Investors are encouraged to visit properties from the outside. You cannot enter occupied properties without permission, but a drive‑by inspection helps evaluate location and condition.

Q: What if there are environmental problems on the property?
Purchasers become responsible for any environmental hazards on the property. Environmental cleanup costs could exceed your investment, so research is essential.Q: How do I obtain clear title after the redemption period?
After redemption ends, you may need to file a quiet title lawsuit to remove clouds on the title. An attorney can guide you through this process, which adds cost but ensures marketable title for resale or financing.

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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Scurry County tax‑sale listings can be found in our Auction Calendar now. Browse them as you review our free resources for guidance and sharpen your strategy. If you prefer a more hands‑on approach, feel free to 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