Fairfax City, Virginia Tax Sales: A Buyer’s Guide

Fairfax City, Virginia, holds tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. These auctions allow buyers to purchase properties while helping the city regain lost revenue. If you’re thinking about bidding, here’s what you need to know.

How Tax Sales Work in Fairfax City

Fairfax City schedules tax sales when enough properties have unpaid taxes. The city does not hold auctions on a fixed date but announces them as needed.

• Auction Type: Public tax foreclosure auctions
• Property Eligibility: Properties with long-overdue taxes
• Where to Find Updates: The city’s tax sales page and auction platforms provide upcoming sale details

Tax Sale Details

Knowing how the auction works can help you prepare and avoid mistakes.

• Auction Location: Most tax sales in Fairfax City happen online as timed, public auctions
• Auction Timing: Times vary, but a previous sale started closing at 11:00 a.m. ET
• Registration: All bidders must register and get approval before participating
• Redemption Period: Property owners can pay all back taxes, fees, and penalties to reclaim their property before the sale. Once the auction is complete, they lose this right

Bidding and Payment Process

Fairfax City tax sales follow a structured process that all bidders must follow.

1. Bidding Process – The property goes to the highest bidder in a public auction.
2. Deposit Requirement – Winning bidders must pay either 25% of the purchase price or $1,000 (whichever is higher) at the auction.
3. Buyer’s Premium – A 10% fee (minimum $150) is added to the final bid amount.
4. Final Payment – The balance must be paid within seven days of the auction closing.
5. Payment Methods: Deposits can be made using certified funds, cashier’s checks, money orders, or wire transfers.

Where to Find Tax Sale Updates

Keeping track of upcoming tax sales helps you stay prepared.

1. Fairfax County Tax Sales Page – Visit FairfaxCounty.gov for official auction announcements.
2. Auction Platform – Many auctions are hosted on third-party sites, so check the official auction platform.

Contact Information for Tax Sales

If you have questions about the process, reach out to:

• Taxing Authority Consulting Services, PC (TACS)
• Address: P.O. Box 31800, Henrico, VA 23294-1800
• Phone: 804-545-2377
• Email: [email protected]

Smart Bidding Tips

To succeed in Fairfax City tax sales, follow these best practices:

• Research Properties: Check the location, liens, and legal status before bidding.
• Know Payment Terms: Be ready to meet deposit and full payment deadlines.
• Consider Legal Advice: A real estate attorney can help with potential legal concerns.
• Review Auction Rules: Read all terms carefully to avoid unexpected costs.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check official tax sale websites for the latest updates.

Need a Hand?

Fairfax City tax sales are worth exploring. Start with our Auction calendar, then explore our free resources to learn more. If questions come up, book a call and talk to someone who’s done this before

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