Chesterfield County Tax Auctions: The Underrated Path to Property Ownership

If you’re interested in real estate but want to skip the high price tags, Chesterfield County, Virginia might be the right place to start. Through their tax deed sale, you can purchase properties at public auction — sometimes for far less than market value. These sales happen when the county collects unpaid property taxes by selling the property.

Let’s break it all down, in plain English.

Quick Overview of Virginia’s Tax Sale System

Virginia uses tax deed sales, which means if you win the bid, you get full ownership of the property — not just a lien. These are judicial sales, meaning they go through the courts. The process is legal, public, and gives the former owner a chance to pay their taxes before the property is sold.

Now let’s talk details for Chesterfield County.

Important Details for Chesterfield County, VA Tax Deed Sales

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Typical Date of Sale	Varies by property; held periodically
Redemption Period	Owner can redeem any time before the court-ordered sale
Interest Rate	Not applicable (this is a deed sale, not a lien sale)
Bid Procedure	Premium bid (highest bid wins)
Deposit Requirement	Percentage of bid, due on auction day
Auction Location	In front of the Circuit Court where taxes are owed
Sale Contact	James W. Elliott – Attorney at Law
County Website	Chesterfield County Official Website
Auction Info Page	Chesterfield Delinquent Tax Sales

What Makes Virginia a Good State for Tax Deed Investing?

Virginia gives investors a chance to buy real estate at public auctions after the county has tried for months (sometimes over a year) to collect delinquent taxes. Once approved by the court, the sale is final and the new owner gets a Special Warranty Deed.

For those who do their research and follow the rules, this can be a great opportunity to own property at a discount.

Fun Facts About Virginia

• Virginia has over 8.7 million people, with Chesterfield County being one of the most populated.
• The state has a long history with property taxes, dating back to colonial times.
• Virginia does not allow non-judicial tax deed sales, so every sale must be approved by the court.
• The process usually takes 6 to 18 months from delinquency to sale.

Things to Do in Chesterfield

• History Lovers: Visit the Chesterfield Historical Society, the Chesterfield Museum, and Magnolia Grange Plantation.
• Nature Fans: Hike, kayak, and camp at Pocahontas State Park.
• Shoppers & Foodies: Explore Chesterfield Towne Center and enjoy local dining and craft brews.

Transportation in Chesterfield

While Chesterfield doesn’t have a major public transit system, it’s close to Richmond and has access to:

• Interstates and highways for commuters
• Amtrak stations nearby
• Richmond International Airport for travel

Chesterfield’s Economy and Real Estate Market

Chesterfield offers affordable housing compared to other parts of Virginia. Whether you’re looking at historic homes or newer builds, there’s a variety to choose from. The real estate market here tends to be steady and appealing to investors, especially with its proximity to Richmond and family-friendly communities.

Why Virginia Tax Deed Certificates Can Be a Smart Investment

High Returns with Low Risk

Unlike traditional property buying, tax deed investing in Virginia can mean getting real estate for a fraction of its value. Since you receive ownership (not just a lien), your profit potential is real. It’s a low-risk investment if you’ve done your due diligence.

How the Auction Process Works

1. Properties with unpaid taxes are listed and announced.
2. The court approves the sale and appoints a special commissioner.
3. Auctions are held, usually in front of the local Circuit Court.
4. If you win the bid, you pay a deposit the same day.
5. The rest is due once the court approves the sale — usually within 30 to 60 days.

Maximum Potential Returns

The return depends on how much you pay and what the property is worth. Since these are real property sales, you can renovate and rent or resell at market value.

Open to All Investors

You do not have to be a Virginia resident to buy tax deed properties here. These sales are open to out-of-state and even foreign investors, as long as you meet the legal requirements and pay on time.

Due Diligence: Why It Matters

Before you buy any property at a tax deed sale:

• Research the property’s location and condition
• Perform a title search (there may be liens)
• Check zoning and land use restrictions
• Know the payment and recording costs

Skipping this step can lead to surprise costs, legal issues, or buying property that isn’t worth much.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Properties

If a property doesn’t sell at auction, it may become available over the counter. These are usually listed with the county attorney or on platforms like VaTaxSale.com. You may avoid bidding wars and get fixed pricing.

Pro Tips for Tax Deed Buyers

• Always attend at least one auction before bidding
• Check the property’s access — some parcels are landlocked
• Avoid properties with unknown tenants or buildings in poor shape
• Ask the county if there are any pending demolitions or code violations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I inspect the property before the auction?
No. These are sold “as-is.” You cannot enter or inspect properties before the sale.

Q: Can I get title insurance after buying?
It depends. Some companies won’t insure tax deed properties for a period of time. You may need to file for quiet title action.

Q: What happens if I don’t pay the balance after the auction?
You risk losing your deposit and being banned from future auctions.

Q: Can I buy in Chesterfield if I live in another state?
Yes! Anyone can bid as long as they meet the requirements and follow county rules.

Q: Are mobile homes included in the tax sale?
Sometimes. It depends on whether the mobile home is considered personal or real property.

Useful Links

• Chesterfield Tax Sale Information
• Chesterfield Treasurer’s Office
• Chesterfield County Website
• Virginia Tax Sale Listings
• 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! 

Final Thoughts

Tax deed sales in Chesterfield County, Virginia offer a way to get into real estate at a lower cost — but you have to do your homework. These auctions are legal, court-ordered, and can lead to full property ownership. Just remember, it’s up to you to inspect titles, understand the risks, and follow all payment rules.

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 us or browse our free resources for valuable investment tips

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