What Every Investor Should Know About Tax Sales in Pulaski County

If you’re looking to invest in tax-delinquent property, Pulaski County, Arkansas, could be a great place to start. This area hosts both in-person and online tax deed auctions through the Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands (COSL). In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know—how the auctions work, when they happen, and what to expect.

Arkansas is a tax deed state, which means investors bid on full ownership of properties, not just the tax debt. If the owner fails to pay property taxes for a full year, the property can be sold at a public auction.

Pulaski County Tax Sale Details

Category	Details
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deeds
Typical Sale Dates	June–August (announced in May)
Redemption Period	Ends 4:00 PM CT the business day before the auction (as of July 1, 2023)
Interest Rate	Not applicable
Bid Procedure	Highest oral bid at live auction; 30-day online bidding for unsold properties
Deposit	$100 earnest deposit (online)
Live Auction Location	Holiday Inn Airport Conference Center – Kitty Hawk Ballroom, 3201 Bankhead Dr, Little Rock, AR 72206
Auction Registration	Required for both in-person and online auctions
Auction Website	COSL
Property Research	Pulaski County Assessor
Clerk’s Info Page	Pulaski County Clerk Auctions

Why Arkansas Is a Smart Place for Tax Deed Investors

Arkansas makes it easier than most states to gain full property ownership through tax deed sales. Once a property is sold at auction, the state issues a Limited Warranty Deed to the winning bidder. While that doesn’t always guarantee a clear title, it’s a big step toward full ownership—especially if you follow up with a quiet title process.

The low entry point, combined with limited competition in some areas, makes Arkansas especially attractive for investors looking for high returns with manageable risk.

Fun Facts About Arkansas

• Arkansas has a population of about 3 million. Pulaski County is the largest, with over 400,000 residents.
• Little Rock is both the state capital and the heart of Pulaski County.
• Arkansas has been auctioning tax-delinquent land since 1901 through its State Land Office.
• The state recently changed the redemption policy, giving owners only until the day before auction to redeem the property.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

Pulaski County has a mix of outdoor recreation and cultural history. Notable spots include:

• Pinnacle Mountain State Park
• Riverfront Park
• Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
• Clinton Presidential Library

Transportation Infrastructure

The county has excellent access thanks to Interstates 30, 40, and 630, plus a national airport and rail services. Whether you’re visiting for the auction or planning to develop property, access is not an issue.

Economic Development

Pulaski County has solid growth in:

• Healthcare
• Government jobs
• Education
• Manufacturing

Community Appeal

Residents enjoy access to:

• Public parks and trails
• Historic neighborhoods
• Local shops and restaurants
• Water activities along the Arkansas River

What Makes Arkansas Tax Deed Certificates a Smart Investment?

High Returns with Low Risk

Because you’re buying real property—not just a lien—you can benefit from reselling, renting, or developing the parcel. Arkansas law shortens the redemption period, reducing the wait time compared to other states.

Auction Process for Tax Deed Sales

• Live Auctions: Held in person, bidding starts at the amount owed in taxes and fees. Highest bidder wins.
• Online Auctions: Properties not sold in person are listed for 30 days on the online auction site. A $100 deposit is required upon winning.
• Payment: Winners must pay the full balance in certified funds within 10 business days.

Maximum Potential Returns

Returns vary depending on location, condition, and demand. Investors often profit by flipping or renting out the property after resolving title issues.

Open to All Investors

Both U.S. residents and foreign investors can participate, as long as they meet ID and registration requirements.

Understanding the Pulaski County Auction Process

1. Check the Auction Calendar.
2. Register online or in person with a valid ID.
3. Research parcels on the Pulaski County Assessor site.
4. Place your bid at auction.
5. Make full payment if you win.
6. Receive a Limited Warranty Deed.
7. File for quiet title if needed.

Expected Returns on Tax Deed Certificates

While there’s no interest rate (like with tax liens), the value is in the property itself. You could profit by flipping the parcel, building on it, or using it as a long-term rental.

Returns can be significant, but only if you research the property thoroughly and manage any legal or repair costs.

Foreign Investor Participation

Foreign investors are welcome in Arkansas tax deed sales. You’ll need to provide a valid U.S. ID and use a U.S. credit or debit card for online registration. All funds must be in U.S. dollars and processed through U.S.-based systems.

Importance of Due Diligence in Tax Deed Investing

What Due Diligence Involves

Before you bid:

• Use the assessor’s office website to find out about the property size, zoning, and location.
• Visit the property if possible.
• Check for municipal or IRS liens that may not be wiped out at auction.
• Look into market values and neighborhood trends.

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Skipping your research could lead to:

• Buying unusable land
• Facing unresolved liens
• Overpaying for a low-value property

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Deeds

How to Buy OTC

If a property isn’t sold at auction, you can still buy it later through the COSL online system.

1. Browse available parcels.
2. Submit your bid.
3. Make payment within 10 business days.
4. Receive your Limited Warranty Deed.

Benefits of OTC

• No bidding competition
• Easier to budget
• Fixed pricing

Why Pulaski County Is a Top Choice for Tax Deed Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

• No income tax on tax deed sales
• Low-cost entry for real estate
• Fast turnaround with minimal redemption period

Real Estate Market Overview

• Little Rock has a growing market with both affordable and upscale neighborhoods.
• Suburbs like Sherwood and North Little Rock offer family-friendly communities and good schools.
• Rental demand is high thanks to colleges, hospitals, and state jobs.

Pro Tips for Bidders

• Always verify the location—many listings don’t include street addresses.
• Check parcel maps and legal descriptions to avoid landlocked or unusable land.
• Avoid overbidding—stick to your max budget.
• Plan for title clearing if you want to resell or finance the property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bid if I’m not from Arkansas?
Yes. Anyone with a valid U.S. ID can participate.

Do I automatically get full ownership after the auction?
You’ll receive a Limited Warranty Deed. For full ownership and resale, you’ll likely need a quiet title action.

Can I visit the property before bidding?
Yes. In fact, you should.

Are there liens that survive the auction?
Municipal or IRS liens might remain. Always research before you bid.

What if I don’t pay on time after winning?
Your deposit is forfeited, and you lose the property.

Useful Links

• Pulaski County Assessor Property Search
• Pulaski County Clerk Auction Info
• COSL Online Auction
• Arkansas County Tax Sale Information Link 
• State of Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands
• Arkansas County In-Person Auction Site 
• 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! 

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re ready to explore Arkansas tax deed investing, Pulaski County is a great place to begin. Check the Auction Calendar, browse available properties, and register to bid.

Need help or guidance? Book a call or check out our free investment resources to get started with confidence

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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