Clark County, Arkansas Tax‑Deed Auctions: Dates, Procedures & Investor Guide

Tax‑delinquent property auctions are a low‑cost way to acquire real estate directly from counties. Instead of buying a lien, bidders in Arkansas actually purchase the property itself through a tax deed sale. This article explains how Clark County conducts its tax‑deed auctions, answers common questions and provides expert tips for investors. We cite official sources, including the Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands (COSL) and local news coverage, to give you the most up‑to‑date information.

Brief Overview of Arkansas Tax Deed Investing

Arkansas does not sell tax lien certificates—properties with unpaid property taxes are forfeited to the state and then sold via tax‑deed auctions. When taxes go unpaid for about two years, the county certifies the parcel to the COSL. The state notifies the owner and interested parties and schedules an auction. A limited warranty deed is issued to the winning bidder after payment. Once the deed is recorded, the buyer must wait out a 90‑day litigation period before the deed becomes final. Buyers should be aware that Arkansas law changed in 2023: parcels sold at auction cannot be redeemed. Owners must pay all taxes by 4 p.m. Central time on the last business day before the sale or they lose the property 

Important Details at a Glance

Detail	Summary
Tax Sale Type	Tax deed
Sale Date	Varies Every Year
Auction Time	10:00 AM CT (registration 9–10 AM)
Registration	Required, free. On-site with a U.S. driver’s license or state ID
Venue	2025: Henderson State–Garrison Activity & Conference Center, Arkadelphia. Locations rotate yearly
Redemption	Ends 4 PM the day before the sale. No redemption after July 1, 2023
Interest	None – Arkansas sells deeds, not liens
Bidding	Starts at taxes/fees. Oral bidding, the highest bid wins. Clark sold with Dallas, Nevada & Ouachita counties
Deposit/Payment	No deposit live; full payment due immediately (check or card – no cash). Online sales: $100 deposit, balance due in 10 days
Contact	COSL: [email protected] • (501) 324-9422
Updates	COSL Public Auction Catalog (cosl.org), local news (Arkadelphian), Clark County sites

Arkansas’ Unique Features for Tax‑Deed Investors

Arkansas stands out among tax‑deed states for several reasons:

• Final sales: Since July 1 2023, delinquent parcels sold at auction cannot be redeemed. The redemption window closes at 4 p.m. CT the day before the sale. This means investors receive property with no statutory right of repurchase.
  
• Foreign buyer restrictions: State law prohibits individuals or entities whose home of record is outside the United States from purchasing tax‑delinquent parcels. If a foreign buyer somehow wins, the deed is cancelled and funds forfeited within three business days.
  
• Limited warranty deed: Buyers receive a limited warranty deed, which conveys the state’s interest but may not be free of clouds. Most investors file a quiet title action after the 90‑day litigation period to obtain a marketable title. Title insurance may not be available until then.
  
• Regional auctions: COSL often groups adjacent counties into a single event, allowing bidders to attend multiple county sales in one day. The auctions rotate venues and are announced in the spring.
  

Potential for High Returns with Manageable Risks

Tax‑deed investing can generate high returns because winning bids often approximate only the delinquent tax and fees. In the 2025 regional auction, all 19 parcels in Clark County sold, generating more than $143,972 in total sales. Counties such as Ouachita and Dallas also saw strong results (see the bar chart below). The ability to acquire real estate at such low entry costs is attractive, but investors must balance the opportunity against risks like uninsurable title and unknown property condition. Diligent research and a strong exit strategy help mitigate these risks.

Fun Facts About Arkansas and Clark County

• Natural beauty: Arkansas is famous for the Ozark Mountains, hot springs and fertile Delta region. DeGray Lake Resort State Park, located 8 mi northwest of Arkadelphia, surrounds a 13,800‑acre lake and offers camping, fishing, golf, hiking and the 26‑mile Iron Mountain Bike Trail.
  
• Population & economy: Arkansas has roughly 3.1 million people and a diverse economy spanning agriculture, retail and logistics. Clark County’s population was 21,378 in 2023, with a median household income of $50,985 and a median property value of $147,100.
  
• Low property taxes: Clark County’s median property tax is $839 per year and $1,075 for mortgaged homes—well below many U.S. counties. This makes holding property relatively affordable.
  
• Higher education hub: Both Henderson State University and Ouachita Baptist University are located in Arkadelphia, creating demand for rental housing and a stable student population.
  
• Transportation: Arkadelphia sits on Interstate 30, connecting it to Little Rock and Dallas, and is served by U.S. Highway 67 and Arkansas Highways 7 and 8. Passenger rail service on Amtrak’s Texas Eagle stops in Arkadelphia.
  
• Tourism & recreation: Nearby attractions include the Ouachita National Forest and Hot Springs National Park, while the Caddo and Ouachita Rivers offer canoeing.
  

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

• Parks and trails: DeGray Lake Resort State Park, Iron Mountain Bike Trail and DeSoto Bluff Trail provide hiking, biking and water sports opportunities.
  
• Historic sites: Clark County Courthouse (built 1899), Clark County Historical Museum, and the Bathhouse Row in nearby Hot Springs.
  
• Cultural events: Arkadelphia hosts annual festivals and college sports events at Henderson State and Ouachita Baptist University.
  

Transportation Infrastructure

Arkadelphia’s location along Interstate 30 and U.S. 67 makes it easily accessible. The county is within two hours of Little Rock’s airport. Rail service via Amtrak’s Texas Eagle connects Arkadelphia to Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles.

Economic Development

The county’s economy is anchored by education (universities and schools), manufacturing, timber and agriculture. Education employs around 1,618 people county‑wide, and median household income has risen 6 % year‑over‑year. Low property values and taxes, coupled with proximity to major transport corridors, make the area attractive for investors and retirees.

Community Appeal

Residents enjoy outdoor recreation, college sporting events, a low cost of living and a welcoming small‑town vibe. Eco‑tourism thrives thanks to forests, lakes and rivers. Entertainment includes theaters, local restaurants, craft fairs and sporting events. The community values education, with high homeownership rates and access to medical facilities.

Why Clark County Is Ideal for Tax‑Deed Investors

1. Accessible prices: Winning bids typically start at the delinquent tax amount, so investors can acquire property for a fraction of market value.
   
2. Low carrying costs: With a median property tax of $839, holding property is inexpensive.
   
3. Growing incomes: Household income increased 6 % from 2022–2023, suggesting a resilient local economy.
   
4. Stable rental demand: Two universities create steady rental demand and potential resale markets.
   
5. Central location: Clark County sits on major highways and near tourist attractions, making property more marketable.
   
6. High sale rates: The 2025 auction sold 100 % of offered parcels, showing strong demand for tax‑deed properties.
   

What Makes Clark County Tax Deeds a Smart Investment?

High Returns with Low Risk

Tax‑deed investing offers the potential for high returns, as properties can be acquired for the cost of delinquent taxes. In Clark County, the 2025 auction produced over $143,972 in sales from 19 parcels. Investors who perform due diligence and secure clear title can resell or rent these properties at market prices. Because Arkansas prohibits redemption after the sale, there is minimal risk of losing the property after bidding.

How the Auction Works

1. Research properties: Use the COSL Public Auction Catalog to find parcels. Each listing provides the parcel number, legal description, minimum bid and delinquent taxes.
   
2. Register: Arrive at the venue by 9 a.m. and present a valid U.S. ID. Registration is free.
   
3. Bid: Auctions start at 10 a.m. and parcels are offered in sale‑number order. Bids begin at the delinquent tax amount. The highest bid wins.
   
4. Pay: Immediately after winning, pay the full amount by personal/business check or credit/debit card. Cash is not accepted.
   
5. Receive deed: A limited warranty deed is recorded after payment. Buyers wait 90 days for potential litigation before perfecting title.
   
6. Post‑auction sales: Unsold parcels appear on the COSL’s Post‑Auction Sales List 30 days after the auction and can be purchased online.
   

Expected Returns

Returns depend on purchase price, condition and resale market. Investors commonly resell properties for two to five times the winning bid, but results vary. Rental income from student housing or vacation rentals near DeGray Lake can also provide attractive yields. Because there is no interest component, profits come from property appreciation or cash flow.

Foreign Investor Participation

Arkansas allows U.S. citizens and residents to participate but bars individuals or entities whose home of record is outside the U.S.. If a foreign buyer somehow wins, the deed is canceled and funds forfeited. Non‑citizen residents with U.S. identification may bid, but they should confirm eligibility with the COSL.

Importance of Due Diligence in Arkansas Tax‑Deed Investing

What Due Diligence Entails

• Property inspection: Verify the property’s location, condition and access. Many parcels are vacant lots or have no road frontage. Use the county assessor’s map, Google Maps and in‑person visits.
  
• Title search: Check for liens, mortgages or legal claims. The state notifies known interested parties, but certain liens (IRS liens, improvement district assessments, municipal liens) may survive the sale. Ordering a title search or consulting an attorney can uncover encumbrances.
  
• Zoning & use: Confirm zoning, building restrictions and environmental hazards. Some parcels are landlocked or unsuitable for building.
  
• Budget for quiet title: Plan for legal fees to obtain marketable title. Title insurance is usually unavailable until after quiet‑title action.
  

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Investors who skip research risk buying property with environmental problems, floodplain issues, non‑extinguishable liens or inaccessible locations. A limited warranty deed does not guarantee clear title; only the state’s interest is transferred. If the title is challenged within the 90‑day period, the sale could be voided (refunds do not include improvements or card processing fee Thorough due diligence helps avoid unpleasant surprises.

Buying Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) Deeds in Arkansas

How to Purchase OTC Deeds

After the live auction, unsold parcels move to the Unsold‑Property Auction list. Anyone can browse the list on auction.cosl.org. Buyers must create an account, verify their identity and add a valid debit/credit card. When you bid online, your card is charged $100 of earnest money upon winning; if your bid is under $100, the entire amount is charged. You must pay the balance within ten business days using certified funds, or the sale will be canceled. Once paid, the COSL records a limited warranty deed and emails or mails it to you.

Benefits of OTC Purchases

• No bidding competition: The sale price is often the minimum amount owed when the parcel first entered the sale. After two years, the COSL may negotiate a lower reserve price.
  
• More time for research: You can research the property thoroughly before placing a bid.
  
• Fixed cost: You know the exact amount required and can budget accordingly.
  

Considerations

Unsold parcels remain available for at least thirty days and may be removed if redeemedl. Always confirm availability and perform due diligence. Note that online buyers also pay card processing fees and must meet U.S. residency requirements.

Conclusion: Investment Potential in Clark County Tax‑Deed Sales

Clark County combines affordable real estate, low property taxes, rising incomes and a central location. Tax‑deed auctions allow investors to acquire property at bargain prices with minimal redemption risk. However, success requires thorough due diligence, understanding of the bidding process and preparation for legal costs to secure marketable title. With these steps, tax‑deed investing in Clark County can deliver significant returns while contributing to local tax rolls and community development.

Pro Tips for Clark County Tax‑Deed Investors

• Arrive early: Registration opens at 9 a.m.; arriving early allows time to register, review last‑minute announcements and get a good seat.
  
• Bring multiple payment methods: Personal or business checks and credit/debit cards are accepted. Ensure your account has enough funds to cover your maximum bid.
  
• Read the buyer’s guide: COSL provides a Buyers Guide and auction brochure on its website (cosl.org); these documents answer common questions and outline rules.
  
• Prioritize properties: With multiple counties auctioned at one event, know which parcels you plan to bid on and their order in the catalog.
  
• Follow up quickly: After winning, pay immediately and watch your mail/email for the recorded deed. File a quiet title action promptly after the 90‑day period.
  
• Keep good records: Track your bids, payments and deeds; you’ll need this information for taxes and future sales.
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When are Clark County tax‑deed auctions held?

Auctions are typically scheduled once per year during the COSL’s July–October auction season. Clark County’s 2025 auction is July 17, while 2024’s was Aug. 15.

What time does the auction start?

The live auction begins at 10 a.m. Central Time; registration starts at 9 a.m.

Do I need to register in advance?

No. Registration happens onsite on the morning of the sale. Bring a valid U.S. driver’s license or state ID and fill out a registration card.

How do I pay for a winning bid?

Full payment is due immediately after the auction. Acceptable forms include personal or business checks and credit/debit cards. Cash is not accepted.

Can I redeem the property after the auction?

No. As of July 1 2023, parcels sold at auction cannot be redeemed. Owners must pay all taxes by 4 p.m. the business day before the sale.

Are foreign investors allowed to bid?

No. Arkansas law prohibits individuals or entities whose home of record is outside the United States from purchasing tax‑delinquent parcels. U.S. residents with valid ID may participate.Where can I see a list of properties?

The COSL’s Public Auction Catalog (cosl.org) lists parcels by county and includes minimum bids, legal descriptions and parcel numbers. Unsold parcels are listed on the Post‑Auction Sales List 30 days after the auction.

What is a limited warranty deed?

It conveys only the state’s interest in the property. The COSL does not guarantee clear title or access. Buyers often need to file a quiet title action after the 90‑day litigation period to obtain marketable title.

Useful Links

• Clark County Website 
• State of Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands
• Arkansas offers a wealth of opportunities with Tax Deed Investing
• Let’s talk about Tax Deeds and how you can profit from them!
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 

Call to Action

Interested in tapping into Arkansas tax‑deed opportunities? Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a newcomer, our team can help you interpret auction lists, perform due diligence and craft an exit strategy. Contact us to schedule a consultation and access free resources. We love hearing from readers—drop your questions or experiences in the comments below!

Need a Hand?

Thinking about tax sale investing in Morgan County? Visit our Auction Calendar to see what’s coming up. Use our free resources to understand the process from start to finish. And if you’re looking for a clear strategy or second opinion, don’t wait—Book a free call with one of our experts.

Interested in Faulkner County investing? Check out our Auction Calendar to find your next property. Book a free call or access our free resources to start building your tax deed strategy today.

Sign up or log in to view the full content.