How Bedford County, Virginia, Conducts Tax Sales

When property owners in Bedford County, Virginia, fail to pay their property taxes, the county takes action by selling these properties at a tax sale. This process helps the county recover unpaid taxes while offering investors the chance to buy properties, sometimes below market value.

Understanding Bedford County’s Tax Sale Process

Tax sales in Bedford County follow a structured legal process. The county collaborates with Taxing Authority Consulting Services (TACS) and The Counts Realty & Auction Group to manage the auctions. These sales take place online, making them accessible to a broader audience.

Check the auction calendar to see upcoming sales.

How It Works

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

1. Identifying Delinquent Properties – The county selects properties with overdue taxes for auction.
2. Listing & Notification – Properties are listed publicly, and notices are sent to owners.
3. Auction – Bidders compete online to purchase the properties.
4. Payment & Transfer – Winning bidders pay and receive ownership of the property.

Public Notification

The county ensures the public is aware of upcoming tax sales through various channels:

• Local Newspaper Announcements – Official notices are published in newspapers.
• Online Listings – Tax sale information is available on county websites and auction platforms.
• Owner Notifications – Property owners receive a final notice before the sale, allowing them a last chance to pay their taxes and keep their property.
• Public Viewing – A list of auctioned properties is available before the sale, helping investors conduct research.

Registering for the Auction

Before bidding, participants must register to be eligible.

• Registration is done through the auctioneer’s website.
• Buyers must provide valid identification and necessary documentation.
• Approval is required before participants can place bids.

Bidding on Properties

Bedford County’s tax sales operate through a competitive bidding process.

• The highest bidder wins the property.
• A buyer’s premium of 10% of the winning bid or a minimum of $150 applies.
• Sales are final and “as-is”, so buyers must do their research beforehand.

Payment and Finalization

Once the auction ends, the winning bidder must complete the payment within a set timeframe.

• Payment Deadline – Usually within two weeks of winning the bid.
• Accepted Payment Methods – Certified funds such as cashier’s checks, money orders, or wire transfers.
• Ownership Transfer – Once the county receives full payment, the property ownership transfers to the buyer.

What Happens After the Sale?

Winning bidders gain ownership of the property, but there are some key considerations:

• Deed Transfer – Buyers receive a legal deed for the property.
• Existing Liens – Some properties may still have liens or legal claims, so title research is crucial.
• Redemption Period – In some cases, the original owner can reclaim the property by paying the taxes and any additional fees. If this happens, the buyer may receive a refund with interest.

Important Considerations

Before participating in Bedford County’s tax sales, bidders should keep these points in mind:

• All Sales Are Final – No refunds are given, so be sure before bidding.
• Due Diligence Is Key – Check for existing liens, legal disputes, and property conditions.
• Failure to Pay Has Consequences – If a winning bidder doesn’t complete the purchase, they lose their deposit and may be banned from future auctions.

Useful Links & Resources

• 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! 

Stay informed about upcoming auctions by checking our Auction calendar. If you have questions or need expert advice, consider booking a consultation to ensure you make the right investment decisions. You can also explore free resources to help you navigate the tax sale process.

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