From Delinquent Taxes to Real Estate Deals: Your Chesapeake Investment Starter Guide

Thinking about getting into real estate investing? Chesapeake, Virginia might be the right place to start. If you’re looking for affordable property, the tax deed sales in Chesapeake offer a real chance to buy land or homes at a lower price.

These sales are public auctions where properties with unpaid taxes are sold. If you win a bid, you’ll walk away with a Special Warranty Deed — but only if you’re ready to follow through with the payment and rules.

How Virginia Handles Tax Sales

Virginia doesn’t sell tax lien certificates like some states do. Instead, cities like Chesapeake use tax deed sales to recover unpaid property taxes. These sales are held under court supervision and follow strict legal rules.

Let’s break down the most important details:

Important Details for Chesapeake Tax Deed Sales

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Sale Location	2752 S. Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, VA
Sale Contact	Ronald D. Slaven, Jr. – Slaven Law Group
Bid Procedure	Premium Bid (highest bidder wins)
Redemption Period	No redemption period (properties are sold via court judgment)
Deposit Required	One-third of the final bid due immediately via cashier’s check or cash
Full Payment Due	Within 14 days of sale
Deed Type Issued	Special Warranty Deed
Recording Cost	Buyer pays – $0.20 per $100 purchase price + $30 clerk’s fee
Auction Authority	Chesapeake Treasurer’s Office
Rules & Info	Tax Sale Rules Page
General County Info	Chesapeake County Website

Fun Facts About Virginia

• Virginia’s Population: Around 8.7 million people live here, making it the 12th most populated state.
• Historic Property Laws: Virginia follows a judicial tax sale process, meaning properties are sold only after a court order.
• No Tax Liens: Unlike many other states, Virginia doesn’t sell tax lien certificates—only deeds.
• Historic Significance: Jamestown, Virginia was the first permanent English settlement in North America, founded in 1607.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Things to See and Do

Virginia offers national parks, local theaters, beaches, and historic battlefields. Chesapeake has a strong outdoor scene with trails, kayaking, and nature reserves.

Transportation

Chesapeake is well-connected by highways and close to Norfolk International Airport. Rail lines and ports also serve the area for both freight and passenger travel.

Economic Strengths

Virginia has strong industries in military, agriculture, shipbuilding, and tech. Chesapeake benefits from nearby military bases and the Port of Virginia.

Lifestyle

The region offers family-friendly neighborhoods, schools, and green spaces. Recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and festivals are popular here.

Why Virginia is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

High Returns with Lower Risk

Chesapeake tax deed auctions offer real estate with no redemption period. That means you take ownership once the court confirms the sale. These properties can often be bought at lower prices, allowing for high returns with less waiting time compared to states with long redemption periods.

Auction Process

The auction is public and usually run by a court-appointed attorney. If you win:

1. You pay one-third right away.
2. You pay the rest within 14 days.
3. You receive a Special Warranty Deed after the court approves the sale.

Keep in mind, properties are sold “as-is”, so research ahead of time is a must.

Returns and Opportunities

There is no interest rate like in lien states, but your return comes from buying below market value. If you’re a cash buyer and do your homework, this can be a solid low-risk investment.

Anyone Can Participate

Virginia does not limit bidders by location. Local, out-of-state, and international investors are welcome. This adds a healthy level of competition, but also proves how attractive the area is.

How to Buy Tax Deed Properties in Chesapeake

1. Check the Sale Notice: Upcoming auctions are posted on the city website.
2. Attend the Auction: Bring cashier’s checks and be ready to pay if you win.
3. Do Your Research: Look up the property, check for liens, visit the site if possible.
4. Pay Within 14 Days: No exceptions.

Expected Returns

Returns depend on the final bid, property value, and resale potential. Most investors look to resell, rent, or hold for appreciation. Because these are court-ordered sales, you get the deed faster, which can shorten your return timeline.

Why Due Diligence is Key

Before bidding:

• Visit the property (if accessible)
• Check for code violations or other liens
• Review local market trends

Skipping this step could mean buying something you didn’t expect, like a landlocked lot or a house in poor shape.

Can You Buy Over-the-Counter in Chesapeake?

Currently, Chesapeake does not offer over-the-counter (OTC) sales. All properties are auctioned through the judicial process. If a property doesn’t sell, it may be re-listed in a future sale.

Why Chesapeake, Virginia Is a Top Pick

• Strong local economy
• Affordable property prices
• Stable real estate market
• Simple legal process
• Open to all investors

All of these make it a solid location for long-term or flip-based investing.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to get into real estate at a lower cost, Chesapeake’s tax deed auctions might be worth your attention. With no redemption period and a straightforward process, the opportunity for high returns is real. Just make sure you do your homework and act fast.

Pro Tips

• Bring a backup cashier’s check if you’re bidding on multiple properties.
• Always read the full sale notice.
• Take pictures of the property beforehand if you plan to resell.
• Ask questions early—reach out to the Special Commissioner.

FAQs About Tax Deed Sales in Chesapeake, VA

Q: Do I need to live in Virginia to bid?
No. Anyone can participate, including international investors.

Q: What if I change my mind after bidding?
You can’t. If you win, you are legally bound to pay, or risk losing your deposit and being held responsible for court costs.

Q: Do I get a clear title?
No. You get a Special Warranty Deed, which is limited. You may still want to purchase title insurance.

Q: How do I find out about upcoming sales?
Check the city’s official sale page or contact the Special Commissioner.

Q: Can I get financing for the purchase?
Not usually. Full payment is required in cash or cashier’s check.

Useful Links

• Chesapeake Tax Deed Sale Rules
• Chesapeake Treasurer’s Office
• Chesapeake County Homepage
• Slaven Law Group – Auction Contact
• 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

Don’t miss out on a great investment opportunity. Visit our auction calendar today and explore available properties. If you need assistance, book a call with an expert or browse our free resources for valuable investment tips.

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