Wichita County, Texas Redeemable Tax Deed — A Friendly Guide to Tax Sales

Introduction to Wichita County and This Guide

Wichita County lies along the Oklahoma border in north‑central Texas. The county seat is Wichita Falls, a mid‑sized city about 144 miles northwest of Dallas. Rolling plains, broad river valleys and mineral resources such as oil and gas dominate its 606‑square‑mile landscape. This article gives an evergreen overview of how Wichita County conducts redeemable tax deed sales and what investors can expect. You will find key dates, registration rules, bidding methods, redemption periods, potential returns and due‑diligence steps. Fun facts, local attractions and economic highlights are included to help you understand the county’s character. Note: Wichita County moved its tax sales online in 2025 via GovEase, so registration and bidding now occur on the GovEase platform.

What Is a Redeemable Tax Deed in Wichita County?

Texas sells redeemable tax deeds rather than traditional tax liens. When property taxes become severely delinquent, the county files a foreclosure suit, obtains a court judgment and then sells the property at a public auction. The winning bidder receives a sheriff’s deed, but the former owner retains the right to redeem the property by paying the purchase price plus a hefty redemption premium. If the property is a homestead or qualifies for agricultural or mineral exemptions, the redemption period is two years. For non‑homestead property the redemption period is 180 days. During the first year of a two‑year redemption, the buyer earns a 25 percent premium on the purchase price; if redemption occurs in the second year, the premium jumps to 50 percent. On a 180‑day redemption, the maximum premium is 25 percent. Investors therefore buy deeds rather than liens, but the redemption premium functions much like interest.

Important Details at a Glance

Feature	Description
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable tax deed; buyer gets a sheriff’s deed with right of redemption.
Typical Sale Date	First Tuesday of each month (online via GovEase).
Sale Time	Bidding opens at 10 a.m. and ends by 4 p.m. Central Time (CST/CDT).
Redemption Period	Two years for homestead, agricultural or mineral property; 180 days for others.
Redemption Premium	25 % in first year and 50 % in second year (or up to 25 % for 180‑day redemption).
Bid Procedure	Open bidding; minimum bid equals taxes, penalties and court costs or appraised value, whichever is less. Highest cash bid wins.
Deposit	GovEase requires registration; some auctions require a deposit. Deposits and payment methods vary and are explained in the registration documents.
Payment	Full payment by cash or cashier’s check is due immediately after bidding.
Updates	Upcoming sales and bidder registration are posted on the Wichita County Tax Office website () and on GovEase.

Fun Facts About Wichita County

• Historical roots: Wichita County was established in 1858 and named for the Wichita Indians. Wichita Falls became a regional transportation center after railroads arrived in 1882. Oil discoveries in the early 1900s turned it into a boomtown.
  
• Population & economy: The Wichita Falls metropolitan area has about 148,978 residents with a median age of 36.4 and a median household income of $63,618. Employment reached 67.6 thousand people in 2023, growing by 1.48 percent from the previous year.
  
• Major industries: Health care and social assistance employ 10,570 people, retail trade 9,067 and educational services 6,394. The highest‑paying sectors are mining and oil & gas ($80,776), agriculture/mining ($72,137) and management of companies ($70,321).
  
• Military presence: Sheppard Air Force Base, established in 1941, hosts the Air Force’s largest technical training wing and provides training to about 63,000 graduates annually. Its 2014 economic impact statement showed a $734 million boost to the local economy and 2,382 indirect jobs.
  
• Parks & recreation: Lake Wichita Park offers 234 acres of recreation, including a 2.6‑mile hike and bike trail, disc golf course, lighted sports fields and a model airplane landing strip. Lucy Park, a 178‑acre regional park in a bend of the Wichita River, features huge pecan and cottonwood trees, a duck pond and an 18‑hole disc golf course.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

• Attractions: The Lake Wichita Park on Fairway Avenue has a 2.6‑mile trail connecting to Lucy Park, public restrooms, playgrounds, sports fields and picnic areas. Lucy Park in central Wichita Falls provides riverfront trails, a duck pond and open meadows. Visitors also enjoy the Museum of North Texas History, the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and family attractions like the CrashWorks STEAM Studio.
  
• Transportation: Wichita County sits at the junction of highways U.S. 82/277, U.S. 281 and U.S. 287. The Wichita Falls Regional Airport, located on Sheppard Air Force Base, offers daily flights to Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport via American Eagle. This connectivity allows investors to visit properties easily.
  
• Economy: Health care, retail, education and military training drive local employment. The presence of Sheppard AFB and ongoing oil and gas operations provide economic stability. Median property values in the metro area hover around $144,700, offering affordable entry points for investors.
  
• Community: Outdoor enthusiasts can fish or kayak on Lake Wichita, stroll the Circle Trail, or attend events at the Multi‑Purpose Events Center. The county hosts festivals, farmers markets and arts performances year‑round.
  

Why Wichita County Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

Wichita County’s mix of steady population, modest housing costs and robust employment creates a favorable climate for redeemable tax deed investing. Median household income of $63,618 supports demand for housing, while a large military installation supplies a constant rental pool. Investors can earn 25 percent to 50 percent premiums on redeemed deeds—returns that outpace many traditional investments. Additionally, properties here are relatively affordable, giving investors a lower cost of entry and higher potential yield. The county’s online auction platform simplifies participation and widens access to both local and remote investors.

Auction Process for Tax Deed Sales in Wichita County

The county conducts tax deed auctions on the first Tuesday of each month. Sales were traditionally held on the courthouse steps, but as of 2025 all bidding is conducted online through GovEase. Bidding opens at 10 a.m. and closes by 4 p.m. Central Time. Properties offered have been foreclosed through court judgments for unpaid taxes.

How the Auction Works

1. Review the sale list: The county posts a list of foreclosed properties on the Wichita County Tax Office website and on GovEase. You can also obtain lists from the county’s law firm, Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott (PBFCM).
   
2. Perform due diligence: Visit or research each property, check for liens or code violations, and estimate repair costs. Due diligence is the investor’s responsibility—there are no warranties.
   
3. Register with GovEase: Create an account on GovEase. Registration requires uploading identification and signing bidder agreements. Some auctions ask for a deposit or proof of funds.
   
4. Verify tax clearance: Texas law may require bidders to provide a statement from the county tax assessor showing they owe no delinquent taxes.
   
5. Bid online: On auction day, log in between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. CST/CDT. Each property opens for bidding with a minimum bid equal to the taxes, penalties and court costs or the appraised value, whichever is less.
   
6. Payment: Winning bidders must pay the full purchase price immediately by cash or cashier’s check. GovEase processes online payments when allowed.
   

Deed issuance: After payment clears, the sheriff executes a deed transferring title subject to redemption rights. Buyers may not take possession until the redemption period expires.

Maximum Potential Returns and Expected Returns

Wichita County’s redeemable tax deeds can produce high returns compared with certificates of deposit or treasury bonds. If a property owner redeems within six months, the investor receives a 25 percent premium on the purchase price. For homesteads or agricultural tracts, the redemption period runs two years; redemption in the first year yields 25 percent, and redemption in the second year earns 50 percent. Because the premium is calculated on the entire purchase price rather than the delinquent tax amount, investors can achieve significant yields. However, investors who obtain title must either keep or sell the property; returns then depend on market conditions, property condition and resale value.

Open to All Investors / Foreign Investor Participation

Texas law does not restrict tax deed participation to state residents. Investors from any state or country can bid, provided they comply with registration and payment requirements. GovEase allows online bidding, making it simple for remote buyers. Foreign investors should consult a tax professional about U.S. withholding requirements and currency transfers. They must also complete IRS Form W‑8 or W‑9 when registering. The county’s tax assessor does not provide legal advice, so international buyers should engage local counsel for quiet title actions and property management.

Due Diligence: Protecting Your Investment

What Due Diligence Entails

Performing due diligence before bidding is essential. Investors should:

• Research the property’s location and condition: Drive by, look for access, utilities, zoning and environmental issues.
  
• Check title records: Search county records for liens, mortgages, IRS liens, code violations or HOAs. Tax deeds do not wipe out all liens.
  
• Estimate costs: Factor in repairs, back taxes, insurance and holding costs. Compare the estimated market value to your maximum bid.
  
• Contact occupants: If the property is occupied, know the legal process for eviction after the redemption period.
  
• Consult professionals: Title companies, attorneys and real estate agents can help evaluate risks.
  

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Ignoring due diligence can lead to costly surprises. Investors may inherit properties with structural issues, environmental contamination or unrecorded liens. Occupants might refuse to leave, requiring legal eviction. In rural areas, access or utilities may be lacking. If the property owner fails to redeem and the investor takes title, resale could be difficult if there are unresolved title defects. Skipping due diligence increases the chance of overpaying at auction and reduces potential returns.

Buying Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) Deeds

After an auction, unsold tax‑foreclosed properties are struck off to the taxing entities. Wichita County may sell these struck‑off properties through resale auctions or private “over‑the‑counter” (OTC) sales. Interested buyers should contact the Wichita County Tax Office or PBFCM to request a list of struck‑off parcels. Prices are usually negotiable and must be approved by the county commissioners court. OTC purchases can be attractive because there is no bidding competition and the buyer sets the price, but the redemption period and premium remain the same as in the initial auction.

How to Purchase OTC Deeds

1. Obtain the list: Call the tax office or PBFCM for the current struck‑off property list.
   
2. Submit an offer: Provide a written bid equal to or greater than the minimum price set by the county.
   
3. Wait for approval: The commissioners court reviews offers and approves the sale.
   
4. Pay and receive deed: Upon approval, pay the amount and receive a sheriff’s deed subject to redemption.
   

Benefits of OTC Purchases

• No bidding competition: You negotiate directly with the county.
  
• Flexible timing: OTC properties can be purchased anytime, not just on auction day.
  
• Potential discounts: Counties may accept lower offers on long‑held properties.
  
• Same redemption premium: Investors still earn up to 50 percent premiums if the property is redeemed.
  

Why Wichita County Is a Top Choice for Tax Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Wichita County’s economy benefits from diverse industries, stable employment, a strong military presence and affordable housing. The county’s strategic location along several U.S. highways and its regional airport make it accessible for investors. Texas also lacks a state property tax and restricts property tax increases through truth‑in‑taxation laws, helping maintain property affordability. The redemption premium mandated by state law provides high yields with limited risk when property owners redeem.

Real Estate Market Overview

Median property values around $144,700 make Wichita County more affordable than larger Texas metros. Inventory includes single‑family homes, small farms and vacant lots. Population growth is modest, but Sheppard AFB and local universities sustain rental demand. Investors who take title after the redemption period can rent or resell properties in a stable market.

Conclusion

Wichita County’s redeemable tax deed auctions offer opportunities for investors seeking high yields and affordable properties. Monthly online auctions run through GovEase on the first Tuesday, beginning at 10 a.m. and closing by 4 p.m. CST. Bidders must register, provide proof of no delinquent taxes and may need to deposit funds. Winning bidders pay cash and receive a sheriff’s deed, but the former owner can redeem within two years (homestead) or six months (other property). Redemption premiums of 25 percent to 50 percent make these deeds attractive compared with traditional investments.

However, success hinges on thorough due diligence. Investors should research properties, confirm title status and budget for repairs. Over‑the‑counter purchases offer additional opportunities with less competition. Wichita County’s diverse economy, moderate home prices and online auction platform make it an appealing destination for both local and global investors. Always consult real estate and legal professionals before investing, and remember that high returns come with responsibility.

Pro Tips for Wichita County Tax Deed Investing

• Register early: Create your GovEase account and submit required documents well before auction day. Registration may close days before the sale.
  
• Get tax clearance: Obtain a statement from the Wichita County Tax Assessor showing you owe no delinquent taxes. Without it you may be disqualified.
  
• Set a cap: Determine your maximum bid based on estimated resale value and repair costs. Don’t let bidding wars erode your returns.
  
• Inspect properties: Drive by each property or hire a local agent. Photos on GovEase may not reveal structural problems.
  
• Plan for quiet title: If the owner does not redeem, budget for a quiet title lawsuit to obtain insurable title before reselling or refinancing.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I renovate or occupy a property during the redemption period? No. Until the redemption period expires, the former owner retains possession. You may not enter, renovate or rent the property without the owner’s consent. If the owner redeems, you must vacate and will be reimbursed only for the purchase price and the statutory premium.
   
2. What happens if there are other liens? Tax deeds do not automatically extinguish all liens. Municipal code liens, IRS liens, HOA dues and some mortgages may survive the sale. Always conduct a title search and consult an attorney.
   
3. Do I need financing? No. Wichita County requires full payment immediately after the auction. Traditional mortgage financing is not available because tax deeds must be paid in cash or cashier’s check.
   
4. How do I obtain clear title after redemption expires? After the redemption period, file a quiet title lawsuit to remove clouds on the title. Title insurance companies usually require this step before insuring or lending on the property.
   

Can I assign my winning bid or sell my deed? Texas law allows assignment of tax deeds, but you must follow GovEase procedures and county rules. Some counties require court approval. Consult the county tax office and an attorney before assigning your interest.

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?

Wichita County tax‑sale listings are available in our Auction Calendar. Use our free resources to gain insight and confidence. And if you’d like help interpreting data or making decisions, just book a call with one of our experts.

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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