How Frederick County, Virginia, Conducts Tax Sales

What is a Tax Sale?

A tax sale happens when property owners fail to pay their real estate taxes. Frederick County, Virginia, holds these sales to recover unpaid taxes by auctioning off delinquent properties. This process allows buyers to invest in real estate while helping the county collect overdue taxes.

Auction dates change, so always check the Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

How the Tax Sale Process Works

Tax Delinquency

• The county starts the tax sale process when owners fail to pay property taxes by June 30.
• Officials send multiple warnings before listing a property for auction.
• If owners ignore the notices, the county files a lawsuit to get a court order for the sale.

Public Notice

• The county announces upcoming tax sales on its official website and in local newspapers.
• Notices include property addresses, tax amounts owed, and auction terms.

Auction Registration

• Interested bidders must register before the auction.
• Registration may require a refundable deposit and proof of identity.
• Some auctions allow online bidding, while others require in-person attendance.

Auction Day Procedures

• The auction takes place at the courthouse or another designated location.
• The auctioneer announces the opening bid based on unpaid taxes and fees.
• Bidders compete until the highest offer wins the property.
• The winning bidder must immediately pay a deposit, usually 10% of the purchase price.

Payment and Property Transfer

• The buyer must pay the remaining balance within the specified deadline.
• If the buyer fails to pay, they lose their deposit, and the county re-lists the property.
• After full payment, the county requests court approval to finalize the sale.
• Once confirmed, the buyer receives a Special Warranty Deed.

Things to Know Before Bidding

Buyer’s Deposit

• Winning bidders must pay a deposit at the auction.
• The county accepts payments via cash, cashier’s check, or certified check.

Property Condition

• All properties sell “as is” with no guarantees on condition or title.
• Buyers should research and inspect properties before bidding.

Redemption Period

• Original owners can reclaim their property before the court confirms the sale.
• To redeem, they must pay all past-due taxes, penalties, and court fees.

No Back Taxes for Buyers

• Sale proceeds cover unpaid taxes, so buyers do not inherit prior tax debt.
• The county clears other liens and judgments before transferring ownership.

How to Get Involved

Sign Up for Notifications

• Visit the county’s website to subscribe to tax sale alerts.
• Stay informed about upcoming auctions and property listings.

Research Before Bidding

• Review property details, liens, and financial obligations before placing bids.
• Consult a real estate attorney if needed.

Understand Payment Requirements

• Winning bidders must pay the full balance by the county’s deadline.
• Late payments result in deposit forfeiture and loss of property rights.

Learn the Legal Process

• Attend informational sessions or consult experts to avoid costly mistakes.
• Understanding auction rules helps you bid confidently and avoid penalties.

Useful Links

• 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! 

Get Started Today!

Check our auction calendar and don’t miss out on a great investment opportunity! If you have questions or need more guidance, book a call with us or browse our free resources to gain valuable insights and make informed investment decisions

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