How Henry County, Virginia, Conducts Tax Sales

Henry County, Virginia, holds tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. When an owner fails to pay, the county takes legal action to auction the property. These sales offer buyers a chance to purchase real estate at discounted prices.

Check the auction calendar for upcoming sales.

How the Tax Sale Process Works

Henry County follows a step-by-step process to conduct tax sales. The county identifies properties with unpaid taxes, notifies owners, gets court approval, and holds an auction where bidders compete for ownership.

Here’s what happens during a tax sale:

1. Properties Become Eligible for Sale – Owners who fail to pay taxes risk losing their property.
2. Legal Action & Court Approval – The county attorney files a lawsuit to approve the tax sale.
3. Public Notice & Property Listings – The county announces the auction and publishes property details.
4. Registration & Auction Participation – Bidders must register and meet auction requirements.
5. The Auction Process – The highest bidder wins and must make immediate payments.
6. Payment & Ownership Transfer – The buyer must pay in full before receiving the deed.
7. Redemption Period (If Applicable) – Some owners may get time to reclaim their property.

1. Properties Become Eligible for Sale

Henry County enforces property tax deadlines strictly.

• Owners must pay real estate taxes on time to avoid penalties.
• If taxes remain unpaid, the county sends warning notices about the overdue balance.
• The Treasurer’s Office adds interest and penalties to the unpaid taxes.
• If the owner does not pay, the county moves forward with legal action to collect the debt.

2. Legal Action & Court Approval

Before selling a property, Henry County must get court approval.

• The county attorney files a lawsuit against the delinquent property owner.
• A judge reviews the case and approves the sale if the taxes remain unpaid.
• Once approved, the county sets an auction date and prepares property listings.

3. Public Notice & Property Listings

The county makes auction details available to the public.

• Henry County publishes a list of properties available for auction.
• Notices appear in local newspapers and official county websites.
• Each listing includes the property address, tax amount due, and minimum bid.
• Buyers should research the property before placing bids.

4. Registration & Auction Participation

Buyers must register before bidding in a Henry County tax sale.

• Pre-Registration – Bidders must register and may need to submit a deposit.
• Proof of Funds – The county may require documentation to confirm financial eligibility.
• Auction Rules – Participants must follow all bidding rules and procedures.

5. The Auction Process

Henry County conducts public auctions where buyers bid against each other.

• The auctioneer starts the bidding at the minimum bid amount, which includes unpaid taxes and fees.
• The highest bidder wins and must immediately pay a deposit.
• The remaining balance is due within a set period after the auction.
• If the winning bidder fails to pay, the county may offer the property to the next highest bidder.

6. Property Payment & Ownership Transfer

Winning bidders must complete full payment within the deadline.

• The county requires full payment by the due date.
• If a buyer fails to pay, the property goes back to auction.
• Once the payment is received, the county transfers the deed to the new owner.

7. Redemption Period (If Applicable)

Some properties allow previous owners a chance to reclaim their property.

• If a redemption period applies, the new owner must wait before taking full possession.
• The original owner can pay the full debt before the deadline to reclaim the property.
• If the owner does not pay on time, the buyer gains full ownership rights.

Why Invest in Henry County Tax Sales?

Buying tax sale properties can be a great opportunity for investors.

• Lower Purchase Price – Properties often sell below market value.
• Investment Potential – Buyers can resell, rent, or develop tax sale properties.
• Public & Transparent Process – The auction follows clear legal guidelines.

Important Things to Check Before Bidding

Before bidding, buyers should research the property.

• Property Condition – Properties sell “as-is.” Visit or research before bidding.
• Existing Liens – Some properties may have additional debts. A title search helps uncover extra costs.
• Auction Rules – Each sale may have different terms. Read all requirements before placing a bid.

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! 

Get Ready for the Next Tax Sale!

Check the Auction calendar and prepare early. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, being prepared makes all the difference. If you are in need of expert guidance, you can book a consultation or explore our free resources for valuable tax sale insights

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