Simple Guide

Introduction

Albemarle County, Virginia, holds tax auctions to recover unpaid property taxes by selling tax-delinquent properties. These sales allow buyers to purchase properties at competitive prices. Unlike traditional real estate sales, tax auctions follow strict legal procedures.

Auction dates change, so always check the Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

How the Process Works

Identifying Delinquent Properties

• The Treasurer’s Office tracks properties with unpaid taxes.
• If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, officials refer the property for auction.

Auction Announcement

• The county announces tax sales through public notices.
• Notices appear in local newspapers and on the county website at least 30 days before the auction.
• Listings include property details, tax amounts, and auction rules.

Auction Format

• Albemarle County may hold auctions in person, online, or through a hybrid system.
• The highest bidder wins, but the Circuit Court must approve the sale before ownership transfers.

How to Register and Bid

Registering for the Auction

• Buyers must register before bidding.
• Registration requires a government-issued ID and proof of funds.

Understanding the Bidding Process

• Approved bidders receive access to the online auction platform or in-person bidding.
• The system updates real-time bids and sends alerts when someone outbids you.

Using Bidding Strategies

• Buyers can set a maximum bid, allowing the system to increase their bid automatically.
• Some auctions allow pre-bidding before the official sale starts.

Payment and Completion

Deposit Requirement

• Winning bidders must submit a deposit immediately after the auction.
• Deposits typically range from 10% to 25% of the total bid.

Additional Fees

• A buyer’s premium may apply, adding an extra cost to the winning bid.
• The buyer covers all administrative fees associated with the sale.

Final Payment Deadline

• The full balance must be paid within the set deadline after the auction.
• Acceptable payment methods include certified funds, cashier’s checks, money orders, or wire transfers.

Court Confirmation and Property Transfer

Review by the Circuit Court

• The Circuit Court reviews the sale before ownership transfers.
• If the court rejects the sale, the buyer receives a full deposit refund.

Right of Redemption

• The original owner may pay off the debt before court approval.
• If this happens, the winning bidder gets a refund.

Deed Transfer Process

• After court approval, the county issues a Special Warranty Deed.
• The new owner is responsible for future taxes, maintenance, and any existing restrictions.

Due Diligence and Property Inspection

Researching the Property

• All properties sell “as-is, where-is, and if-is.”
• Buyers should research tax history, zoning rules, and potential legal issues.

Accessing Public Records

• The county provides property records, tax data, and GIS mapping tools online.
• Buyers can review property assessments, legal descriptions, and ownership history.

Inspecting the Property

• Some tax-sale properties may be occupied.
• Buyers should consider legal steps to remove occupants if necessary.

Additional Auction Details

Pre-Bidding Period

• Some auctions allow early bidding before the live event.
• Pre-bidding helps buyers test the platform and assess the competition.

Financing Considerations

• Buyers must secure funds in advance, as the county does not provide financing.
• Failure to pay results in losing your deposit and bidding privileges.

Unsold Properties

• If no one bids on a property, it may be offered in a future auction.
• The county may adjust pricing for unsold properties at a later date.

Useful Links

• Learn How to Profit from Virginia Real Estate Auctions 
• 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! 

Albemarle County conducts public tax auctions to sell tax-delinquent properties. Buyers must register online, bid competitively, and complete payments on time since all properties sell as-is, thorough research before bidding is essential.

Stay updated on future sales—check the Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

Call to Action

Don’t miss your chance to invest in a tax-sale property. Visit our auction calendar today to explore available properties. If you need help, book a call with an expert, or you can explore our free resources for valuable investment tips.

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