Manassas City, Virginia, offers a strong opportunity for real estate investors through its tax deed sales. Whether you’re new to investing or experienced in the market, understanding the process helps you make smarter moves and avoid mistakes. This guide explains how tax sales work in Manassas and why they can be worth your time.

A Quick Look at Virginia’s Tax Sales

Virginia is a tax deed state, which means that when property taxes go unpaid for too long, the government can sell the actual property (not just the tax lien) to recover the money. Buyers get full ownership once the court confirms the sale.

This makes Virginia appealing to investors looking for real estate at below-market prices—especially in steady, growing communities like Manassas.

Important Tax Sale Details for Manassas City, Virginia

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Auction Method	Live (sometimes online)
Sale Frequency	Held as needed
Next Scheduled Auction	Based on demand
Auction Location	Dr. A.J. Ferlazzo Building Auditorium, 15941 Donald Curtis Dr, Woodbridge, VA
Deposit Required	25% of purchase price or $1,000 (whichever is higher) + 10% buyer’s premium (minimum $150)
Payment Deadline	Balance due within 15 days of court confirmation
Redemption Period	No redemption period after court confirmation
Bidding Format	Competitive bidding
Properties Sold As-Is	Yes – no inspections or guarantees
Required Research	Title search, property inspection, legal review
More Info	Visit the Manassas Treasurer’s Office

Why Does Manassas Hold Tax Sales?

The city holds tax sales to collect unpaid real estate taxes. These taxes help pay for schools, roads, public safety, and more. If a property owner doesn’t pay after several warnings, the city takes legal action and sells the property at public auction.

How the Manassas Tax Sale Process Works

1. Delinquent Taxes Identified
   The city reviews tax records and flags properties with unpaid balances.
2. Legal Action
   A Special Commissioner is assigned to manage the legal steps before the sale.
3. Public Notice
   The city posts details about the sale, including property addresses and terms.
4. Auction Day
   Bidders must register in advance and follow the rules. The highest bidder signs a purchase agreement on the spot.
5. Payment and Confirmation
   The buyer pays a deposit immediately. After court approval, the buyer pays the remaining balance and receives the deed.

What You Should Know Before Bidding

• Properties Are Sold As-Is
  The city doesn’t inspect properties before selling them. It’s up to you to research the property’s condition.
• Check the Title
  Tax sales may wipe out city liens, but other liens can still exist. Doing a title search or hiring a real estate attorney is smart.
• You’re Responsible After the Sale
  Winning bidders are responsible for recording the deed, paying recording fees, and staying up to date on future taxes.

Interesting Facts About Manassas Real Estate

• Government and Military Jobs
  The city’s location near Washington, D.C., brings in steady employment and keeps housing demand high.
• Small Market, Big Demand
  As a small city, inventory is limited, but buyer interest remains strong.
• Popular with Commuters
  The Virginia Railway Express connects Manassas to Northern Virginia and D.C., making it a great location for commuters.
• Historic Areas Hold Value
  Homes near the Manassas Historic District often stay stable in value because of tourism and charm.
• Diverse Housing Types
  Buyers will find older homes, townhomes, and new construction, making it easy to find something that fits their budget or investment plan.

Local Attractions and Lifestyle

Things to Explore:

• Civil War battlefields and museums
• Family-friendly parks and hiking trails
• Historic downtown with local shops and dining
• Local theaters and seasonal events

Transportation Options:

• Amtrak and VRE rail lines
• I-66, Route 28, and local bus services
• Nearby airports like Dulles International

Economic Strengths:

• Growth in healthcare, tech, logistics, and education
• A steady stream of government-related work
• Small business development support from the city

Why Virginia is Great for Tax Deed Investors

• You Gain Full Ownership
  No waiting for a redemption period—once the court approves the sale, the property is yours.
• Steady Property Market
  The area near D.C. stays in demand, which supports long-term value.
• Open to Everyone
  There are no residency rules—investors from anywhere, including other countries, can participate.
• Tax Deed = Full Asset
  Unlike tax liens, deed sales give you the entire property. You can renovate it, rent it, or resell it.

Understanding Auction Rules and Returns

How the Auction Works:

• You register before the auction
• Bring a deposit (25% or $1,000, whichever is more)
• Bidding is competitive
• Highest bidder signs the contract and pays the rest after court approval

Expected Returns:

• If you do your research, you can buy property for well below market value
• Returns come from renting or reselling the property later
• No fixed interest rates—your profit depends on what you do with the property

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Properties

Some properties don’t sell at auction. Later, they may become available over the counter.

Benefits of OTC Sales:

• No bidding competition
• Set pricing
• Easier for first-time investors
• Still a chance to get property at a discount

Ask the Manassas Treasurer’s Office if OTC properties are available.

Pro Tips for First-Time Buyers

• Always do a title search before bidding
• Use online tools to check property photos, zoning, and location
• Start with smaller properties if you’re just getting into investing
• Review the auction notice carefully—each auction has its own rules
• Join a training or course to understand how tax deed sales work

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to live in Virginia to buy at auction?
No. Anyone can participate—local or international.

Is the property guaranteed to be in good shape?
No. Properties are sold as-is, and there are no inspections from the city.

What if I don’t pay the balance on time?
You may lose your deposit and the property will go to the next highest bidder.

Can I finance the purchase?
Usually no. Most auctions require full payment, and outside financing is rarely accepted.

Where can I find out about upcoming auctions?
Visit the Manassas Tax Deed Sale Info Page for updates.

Useful Links

• Manassas Real Estate Tax Info
• Manassas Treasurer’s Office
• 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! 

Don’t Miss Your Chance!

Check the Auction calendar to stay updated on upcoming tax sales. The right investment opportunity could be waiting for you. If you have questions or are in need of expert advice, you can, book a consultation or explore our free resources to make informed tax sale decisions

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About Dustin Hahn

Dustin Hahn is a Tax Lien & Deed investor with over 22 years of experience and hundreds of deals under his belt. He created Tax Lien School.com to help you buy Tax Deeds up to 90% off mortgage free and earn up to 36% ROI with Tax Liens. This site was voted the “Most Useful Resource” for new investors. Dustin’s YouTube Channel is the #1 Channel on Tax Liens & Deeds with over 98,000 Subscribers and 3600 videos to help you start. “The Best Time To Start Real Estate Investing Was 20 Years Ago, The Second Best Time Is TODAY!”

20+yrs

5–10deals/mo

2009TLS founded