Looking for Property in Arlington VA? Here’s How to Win at a Tax Auction
Introduction
Looking to buy property at a lower price in Arlington County, Virginia? Tax deed sales may be your way in. These public auctions happen when property owners haven’t paid their taxes in years. The county then sells these properties to recover the taxes—and you could become the new owner by placing the highest bid.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Arlington County’s tax deed sales, including how to register, how much deposit is needed, and why this could be a great chance for real estate investors.
Brief Overview of Virginia’s Tax Sale Process
In Virginia, most counties—including Arlington—sell tax deeds, not tax liens. This means you are bidding to take full ownership of the property. The sales are court-ordered and happen at random times, not on a regular schedule. Every county has its own rules, so it’s important to stay up-to-date.
Important Details: Arlington County, Virginia Tax Deed Sales
Detail
Information
Tax Sale Type
Tax Deed Sale
Typical Sale Date
Varies; no fixed schedule
Redemption Period
No redemption once court confirms the sale
Interest Rate
Not applicable (deed sale)
Bid Procedure
Premium bidding (highest bidder wins)
Deposit Requirement
25% of winning bid or $1,000 minimum (max $20,000 per parcel)
The sale process is run through the courts, making it clear and reliable
Once the court approves the sale, you become the owner—no wait time
A strong mix of residential and commercial properties available
Stable real estate laws make investing safer
Why Arlington County?
Arlington is one of the most popular locations in Northern Virginia. It’s just across the river from Washington, D.C., and has a mix of city living, job opportunities, and historic charm. Homes in the area are in demand, which means buying at auction could lead to solid returns.
Fun Facts About Arlington County
Estimated population (2024): 240,900
Land area: 25.8 square miles, making it the smallest self-governing county in the U.S.
Home to the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery
Over 600 restaurants, 148 parks, and many outdoor trails
77.7% of residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher
Population forecast for 2050: 311,200
One of the longest escalators in the world is at Rosslyn Metro Station
Popular Attractions Arlington is filled with museums, public parks, theaters, historic sites, and event spaces. You’re also just minutes from all that Washington, D.C. offers.
Transportation Arlington is well connected with Metro stations, major highways, bus lines, and bike trails.
Economy Major industries include government, defense, tech, consulting, and education.
Community Appeal The county is known for its clean streets, civic involvement, walking trails, family-friendly parks, and eco-friendly growth plans.
Because you’re buying the deed to the property (not just a lien), there’s a chance to earn strong returns. If the property is in a great location like Arlington, you could resell it or rent it out for profit.
Open to All Investors
Both local and international investors are welcome to participate in Arlington’s tax deed sales. Just make sure you’re not behind on your own property taxes and you aren’t listed in any local tax lawsuits.
Understanding the Process in Arlington County
These auctions are legal court proceedings. Once you bid and win, you’re agreeing to buy the property—no turning back. That’s why it’s so important to:
Visit the property (from the street only)
Order a title search
Review zoning information
Make sure you’re comfortable with the risks
Properties may have issues like no access roads or outstanding liens.
The Importance of Due Diligence
Before you bid, take these steps:
Visit the neighborhood
Hire someone to check the title history
Make sure the land use fits your plans
Skipping these steps can lead to big problems, like legal issues or unusable land.
Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC)
Arlington County does not currently offer OTC sales. All tax deed properties go through auction.
Why Virginia Is a Good Choice for Tax Deed Investors
Economic and Tax Advantages Virginia has a steady economy and balanced tax system. It’s seen as a low-risk area to invest, especially around the D.C. metro area.
Real Estate Market Demand in Arlington is high, especially for homes near transit, schools, and job centers.
Don’t miss out on a great investment opportunity. Visit our auction calendar today and explore available properties. If you need guidance, book a call with an expert or browse our free resources for valuable investment tips.
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Learn how to get 18-36% returns on your investment and buy property for as little as $500 with tax lien and tax deeds.
Lien Sales Annually Oct – Nov. Deed Sales Are Held on a Needed Basis and Only on Properties That Were Not Sold at Lien Sale and Were Held by the County for 18 Months
10% Penalty if Redeemed in 1st 6 Months, 15% Penalty if Redeemed in Months 6-12, but Only on the Taxes and Fees Not the Overbid. Overbid Amount Receives 5% Interest.
Redemption Period:
1 Year if Sold at County Sale, Liens Not Sold at County Sale Are Certified to Commissioner and Sold in “Commissioner’s Certificate Sale” With 120 Day Redemption Period
Online Auction:
Yes
Over the Counter:
No but There Is a Second Auction Called a Commissioners Certificate Auction With a Shorter Redemption Period of 120 Days
25% Penalty Per 6 Months for Non Homestead or Special Land Use Properties. If 2 Yr Redemption Period Applies 25% for 1st Year and 50% Penalty for 2nd Year
Redemption Period:
6 Months for Most Properties. 2 Years for Homestead and Special Land Use Properties
Online Auction:
The Vast Majority No, but in 2019, Two Counties (Victoria & Orange)
“Upset Sale” First With Premium Bidding Which Does Not Extinguish Other Liens, Followed by “Judicial Sale” Where All Liens With the Exception of Irs Liens Are Extinguished
Frequency:
Annually Throughout the Year. Upset Sales Typically Held in the Fall. Judicial Sale Typically in the Spring but Could Be Anytime After the Upset Sale.
Interest Rate / Penalty:
N/A
Redemption Period:
N/A
Online Auction:
Very Few
Over the Counter:
Yes Through “Repository” List With County Acceptance
Arlington County
Looking for Property in Arlington VA? Here’s How to Win at a Tax Auction
Introduction
Looking to buy property at a lower price in Arlington County, Virginia? Tax deed sales may be your way in. These public auctions happen when property owners haven’t paid their taxes in years. The county then sells these properties to recover the taxes—and you could become the new owner by placing the highest bid.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Arlington County’s tax deed sales, including how to register, how much deposit is needed, and why this could be a great chance for real estate investors.
Brief Overview of Virginia’s Tax Sale Process
In Virginia, most counties—including Arlington—sell tax deeds, not tax liens. This means you are bidding to take full ownership of the property. The sales are court-ordered and happen at random times, not on a regular schedule. Every county has its own rules, so it’s important to stay up-to-date.
Important Details: Arlington County, Virginia Tax Deed Sales
What Makes Virginia Ideal for Tax Deed Investors
Virginia offers several perks for investors:
Why Arlington County?
Arlington is one of the most popular locations in Northern Virginia. It’s just across the river from Washington, D.C., and has a mix of city living, job opportunities, and historic charm. Homes in the area are in demand, which means buying at auction could lead to solid returns.
Fun Facts About Arlington County
Attractions and Economic Highlights
Popular Attractions
Arlington is filled with museums, public parks, theaters, historic sites, and event spaces. You’re also just minutes from all that Washington, D.C. offers.
Transportation
Arlington is well connected with Metro stations, major highways, bus lines, and bike trails.
Economy
Major industries include government, defense, tech, consulting, and education.
Community Appeal
The county is known for its clean streets, civic involvement, walking trails, family-friendly parks, and eco-friendly growth plans.
Auction Process: How It Works
You can read the full details on the Arlington Tax Sale Page.
Maximum Potential Returns
Because you’re buying the deed to the property (not just a lien), there’s a chance to earn strong returns. If the property is in a great location like Arlington, you could resell it or rent it out for profit.
Open to All Investors
Both local and international investors are welcome to participate in Arlington’s tax deed sales. Just make sure you’re not behind on your own property taxes and you aren’t listed in any local tax lawsuits.
Understanding the Process in Arlington County
These auctions are legal court proceedings. Once you bid and win, you’re agreeing to buy the property—no turning back. That’s why it’s so important to:
Properties may have issues like no access roads or outstanding liens.
The Importance of Due Diligence
Before you bid, take these steps:
Skipping these steps can lead to big problems, like legal issues or unusable land.
Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC)
Arlington County does not currently offer OTC sales. All tax deed properties go through auction.
Why Virginia Is a Good Choice for Tax Deed Investors
Economic and Tax Advantages
Virginia has a steady economy and balanced tax system. It’s seen as a low-risk area to invest, especially around the D.C. metro area.
Real Estate Market
Demand in Arlington is high, especially for homes near transit, schools, and job centers.
Pro Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I get the property right after the auction?
No. You must wait for the court to confirm the sale before completing your payment.
Can I go inside the property before bidding?
No. You can only view it from the street.
Are these auctions online or in person?
Both. You can bid at forsaleatauction.biz or in person.
Can I get a loan to pay for the property?
No. You must pay the balance yourself within 15 days of court approval.
Can international investors join?
Yes. Anyone can bid if they meet the local requirements.
Useful Links
Call to Action
Don’t miss out on a great investment opportunity. Visit our auction calendar today and explore available properties. If you need guidance, book a call with an expert or browse our free resources for valuable investment tips.
Sign up or log in to view the full content.
Join Us
Learn how to get 18-36% returns on your investment and buy property for as little as $500 with tax lien and tax deeds.