Scott County sits just southwest of Minneapolis in the Twin Cities metro. It includes cities like Shakopee, Prior Lake, Savage, Jordan, and Belle Plaine. The county has strong job growth, high household incomes, and steady housing demand.

This guide explains how Scott County tax forfeited sales work. You will see how land becomes tax forfeited, how the auction runs, what the rules are, and where to find official updates and contacts.

What is Scott County tax deed and tax forfeited investing

Minnesota counties do not sell tax lien certificates. Instead, they sell tax forfeited land. When property taxes stay unpaid through the full redemption period, title passes to the state. The county then manages and sells the parcel as a deed.

In Scott County, these tax forfeited parcels are reviewed and then offered to the public at auction. If a parcel does not sell at auction, the county can later offer it for over the counter sale.

Important Details

Tax Sale Basics

Item	Summary
Tax Sale Type	Tax forfeited land. Buyer receives a deed, not a lien.
Typical Sale Date	Set by county board. Dates appear in each public sale notice.
Redemption Period	Usually three years. Some parcels use one year by state law.
Interest Rate	No interest rate. Profit comes from resale or rent.
Bid Procedure	Public auction to highest bid at or above minimum set value.
Deposit	County sale notice lists payment terms and deadlines.

Key contacts and links

Item	Details
Tax Sale Office	Scott County Property and Taxation Services
Main Phone	952 496 8115
General Information Line	952 445 7750
Office Address	200 Fourth Avenue West, Shakopee, MN 55379
Main Tax Forfeited Page	Tax Forfeited Properties, Scott County website
Info and Lists	Requests for Property Information page on Scott County website

Fun facts about Scott County

• Scott County is part of the Minneapolis Saint Paul metro and is one of the fastest growing counties in Minnesota.
  
• The county seat is Shakopee, home to Valleyfair amusement park and large employers like Amazon and other logistics facilities.
  
• Scott County reports one of the highest median household incomes in the state.
  
• Housing ranges from newer suburban areas to small town neighborhoods, which supports both owner and rental demand.
  

Attractions and economic highlights

• Attractions include Valleyfair, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Canterbury Park, and the Minnesota Renaissance Festival.
  
• Transportation routes include US 169 and State Highway 13, linking the county to the broader region.
  
• Major employers operate in healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and entertainment.
  
• The county supports outdoor recreation, family activities, and a growing small business community.
  

Why Scott County is ideal for tax deed investors

• The area has strong job growth which helps rental and resale demand.
  
• High median household income supports stable rent levels.
  
• Tax forfeited parcels can offer lower entry prices compared to retail listings.
  
• Minnesota tax forfeited sales follow clear rules set by the state.
  
• These opportunities offer high returns for investors who buy wisely and manage repairs well.
  

Auction process for tax deed and tax forfeited sales

Scott County manages tax forfeited properties under Minnesota law. Parcels become tax forfeited after the redemption period ends and title passes to the state. The county then classifies each parcel and decides which ones to sell.

The county board sets the minimum sale price, based on market value or appraised value. The county publishes a list of parcels and a notice of the public sale.

Sales usually take place at the Scott County Government Center in Shakopee or on an approved online auction platform if stated in the notice.

Unsold parcels may later be offered over the counter at the minimum set price.

How the auction works

Because these are deed sales, there is no interest rate. The return depends on resale or rental value after purchase.

Maximum potential returns and expected returns in Scott County

Tax deed investing in Scott County can produce strong profits. Since there is no fixed interest rate, the return comes from buying at a discount and later renting or selling.

Some parcels sell close to retail market value, especially in popular neighborhoods. Others may sell lower due to repairs or location. Your results depend on how well you estimate repair costs, title needs, and resale value.

A well chosen tax deed can produce total returns higher than many traditional investments. Homes in good areas can deliver strong equity spreads once repairs and title work are complete. Rural or special purpose parcels may need more patience but often cost less to enter.

Open to all investors and foreign investor participation

Minnesota tax forfeited sales are open to the public. The county can restrict bidders with unpaid taxes or certain repurchase rights, but most buyers are welcome.

Both local and out of state investors can bid. International investors can also buy these parcels as long as they follow United States property and tax rules. Many foreign buyers use local companies for title and banking.

Scott County is popular due to its access to the Twin Cities job market, strong income levels, and steady population growth.

Importance of due diligence in Scott County tax deed investing

Due diligence protects your investment. Tax forfeited parcels can carry risks, such as repairs, liens, or access issues. Careful review helps you avoid surprises and plan your exit strategy.

What due diligence entails

• Check parcel maps for size, location, roads, and nearby uses.
  
• Review aerial photos and street images to preview condition.
  
• Study the legal description and confirm it with a title professional if needed.
  
• Contact the city for details about utilities, zoning, and permits.
  
• Ask a title company to check for federal or state liens that may survive the sale.
  

Risks of skipping due diligence

• The land may have no legal access.
  
• Buildings may need major repairs or removal.
  
• Certain liens might still attach after forfeiture.
  
• Local assessments might return to the tax roll.
  
• You may buy a parcel with low resale interest.
  

Buying over the counter liens or deeds in Scott County

Scott County sometimes offers tax forfeited parcels that did not sell during the auction. These parcels may be available over the counter at the set minimum price.

At the time the county last updated its page, no over the counter parcels were listed, but this changes as new auctions take place.

How to purchase over the counter

• Check the Scott County tax forfeited property page for available parcels.
  
• Contact Scott County Property and Taxation Services to confirm price and terms.
  
• Submit payment according to county instructions. Some forms require certified funds.
  
• Once payment is complete, the county prepares and records the deed.
  

Benefits of over the counter purchases

• No bidding or competition.
  
• Set prices make budgeting easy.
  
• More time for research before you buy.
  

Why Scott County is a top choice for tax deed investors

Economic and tax advantages

• Strong job market across health care, logistics, and manufacturing.
  
• High household income and low jobless rates.
  
• Easy access to Minneapolis and Saint Paul for long term demand.
  
• Clear state rules that guide all tax forfeited land sales.
  

Real estate market overview

Scott County has steady housing growth. Cities like Shakopee and Prior Lake show rising property values and strong rental demand. Investors often see solid resale gains after repairs and clean title work.

Tax deed properties can offer instant equity for buyers who pick the right locations and manage improvements well.

Conclusion

Scott County provides a strong setting for tax deed investing. It offers growth, stable incomes, and a clear tax forfeited sale process. Each auction is announced by the county with a parcel list and sale terms.

Investors who follow due diligence and plan their exit strategies can do very well here. The county offers a mix of homes, lots, and special use parcels that fit many budget levels.

Success in Scott County comes from research, careful bidding, and smart planning. Always confirm details with county staff and local professionals before you invest.

Pro tips for Scott County tax deed investing

• Study city plans and zoning maps to find areas with strong future demand.
  
• Watch parcels close to major employers since rental demand is often higher.
  
• Look for buildable infill lots in established neighborhoods.
  
• Build positive contact with county staff for clarity on sale terms.
  
• Track several past sales to understand real bid prices and market patterns.
  

FAQs about Scott County tax deed investing

Useful links

• How to Maximize Your Investment with Minnesota Tax Deeds
• The Ultimate Guide to Tax Deeds: What You Need to Know
• Tax Deed Investing 101: How to Buy Property for Just $50!

Need a hand

You can get help as you learn Scott County tax deed investing. Use training tools that explain the process, review sale lists, and teach you how to research parcels. You can learn more, check the Auction Calendar, explore free free resources, and book a call for support before you bid on your first deal.

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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