Everything You Should Know About Tax Deed Sales in Alexandria County, Virginia

Introduction

If you’re looking to buy property in Virginia through tax deed investing, Alexandria County might be a good place to start. Whether you’re a local investor or joining from across the country, tax sales in Alexandria give you a chance to purchase properties where the owners haven’t paid their property taxes.

Tax deed sales mean you’re buying the actual property, not just a lien. But it’s not a free-for-all—you’ll need to follow some strict rules, do your research, and make sure your funds are ready to go.

Overview of Tax Deed Investing in Virginia

Virginia allows tax deed sales, not tax liens. This means if a property owner doesn’t pay their taxes, the county can sell the property at auction. In Alexandria County, the process is managed with court oversight, so it’s a bit more formal than in some other places.

Many investors are drawn to this method because of the chance for high returns. But with that comes responsibility—you’ll want to check everything about a property before you bid.

Important Details for Alexandria County Tax Deed Sales

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Typical Sale Date	Varies – announced ahead of time on the official auction site
Bid Procedure	Premium Bid – highest bidder wins
Redemption Period	None (Virginia is a deed state)
Deposit	25% of bid or $1,000 minimum (whichever is more), plus 5% buyer’s premium
Final Payment Deadline	15 days after court approval
Court Approval Required	Yes, all sales must be approved by the Circuit Court
Sale Contact	TACS (Taxing Authority Consulting Services)
Auction Website	ForSaleAtAuction.biz
Treasurer’s Website	City of Alexandria Treasury
County Website	City of Alexandria
Real Estate Records	Alexandria Property Search

Why Virginia Is Appealing to Tax Deed Investors

Virginia has a well-organized and transparent process for tax deed sales. Unlike states with long redemption periods, Virginia’s system gives successful bidders direct ownership after court confirmation. That means you can take control of the property faster.

Plus, properties are sold as-is—you might be able to get a property at a price much lower than market value. But you must do your homework.

Fun Facts About Virginia and Alexandria

• Population: Alexandria has about 155,525 residents.
• Housing Market: The average home price is around $773,652—higher than many neighboring areas.
• Apartments Dominate: About 60% of housing in Alexandria are apartments and high-rises.
• Real Estate Growth: Property values have increased by 48% over the last 10 years.

Alexandria was originally founded in 1749 and played a key role in early U.S. history. Today, it’s known for its beautiful Old Town area, waterfront restaurants, and a strong mix of old charm and new growth.

Attractions and Local Economy

Popular Attractions

• Historic buildings and museums
• Waterfront dining and shops
• Parks and walking trails

Transportation

• Access to Washington D.C. via Metro
• Ronald Reagan National Airport nearby
• Well-developed roadways and public buses

Economic Highlights

• Major employers include federal agencies, tech companies, and healthcare providers
• Continued development in both commercial and residential sectors

Community Vibe

• A mix of city and suburban feel
• Plenty of outdoor events, local farmers’ markets, and historic walking tours

Why Alexandria County Is Great for Tax Deed Investors

High Returns, Low Risk

• With rising property values, getting a property below market value offers solid return potential
• No redemption period means you’re not waiting to see if the previous owner pays you back

Auction Process

• Auctions are held online
• Bidders must register and get approved
• Deposits are due immediately; all sales must be confirmed by the court

Returns

• If you get a property at a good price, you may sell or rent it for a solid return
• Some investors use this method to build a long-term rental portfolio

Open to Everyone

• You don’t have to live in Virginia to participate
• Foreign investors can also join in

Understanding the Alexandria Tax Deed Auction Process

Here’s a simple step-by-step:

1. Register on ForSaleAtAuction.biz
2. Review property listings and details
3. Do your research—check the title and location
4. Bid during the auction
5. If you win, pay the deposit (25% or $1,000 min + 5% premium)
6. Wait for court approval
7. Pay the remaining balance within 15 days

Importance of Due Diligence

Don’t skip the research. Before bidding:

• Visit the property, if possible
• Order a title search
• Check zoning and access rights

If you don’t check these things, you might end up with a property you can’t use or sell.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) in Virginia

If a property doesn’t sell at auction, it might be available afterward:

• Contact TACS to ask about available properties
• No bidding—just pay the fixed price
• You still need to research, but competition is much lower

Why Virginia Stands Out for Tax Deed Investing

Economic Strength

• Strong job growth and diverse industries

Tax Environment

• No state-level inheritance tax
• Business-friendly policies

Real Estate Market

• Consistent growth
• High demand in and around urban areas like Alexandria

Conclusion

If you’re looking to invest in real estate through tax deed sales, Alexandria County, Virginia is a smart place to consider. The process is clear, the market is strong, and the opportunities are real. Just make sure to do your due diligence and prepare your funds in advance.

Pro Tips

• Sign up for auction alerts early
• Read the full auction terms carefully
• Don’t assume every property has access—double-check maps
• Budget for repairs, taxes, and legal work

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone bid in the Alexandria tax deed sale?
Yes. Both local and out-of-state investors can participate. Foreign investors are also welcome.

Do I need to attend in person?
No. Alexandria’s auctions are held online.

Is financing allowed?
No. You must have your full payment ready. Financing is not accepted.

Can I back out after bidding?
No. If you win and back out, you’ll lose your deposit.

Are properties sold with clear titles?
No. You must order your own title search. Properties are sold “as-is.”

Useful Links

• Alexandria Tax Sale Info
• City of Alexandria Real Estate Records
• Auction Website – ForSaleAtAuction.biz
• Alexandria Treasurer’s Office
• 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! 

Call to Action

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