How Manassas, Virginia, Conducts Tax Sales

Manassas, Virginia, holds tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. These auctions allow buyers to purchase properties at competitive prices when owners fail to pay taxes. If you’re considering bidding, understanding the process and legal requirements will help you make smart investment decisions and avoid common mistakes.

Why Manassas Holds Tax Sales

Property taxes help fund essential city services, so Manassas enforces strict tax payment rules.

• Owners must pay real estate taxes twice a year—on June 5th and December 5th.
• The city adds penalties and interest to unpaid tax balances.
• If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the city takes legal action to auction the property.

Check the auction calendar for upcoming tax sales.

How the Tax Sale Process Works

Manassas follows a structured legal process to conduct tax sales. The city identifies unpaid properties, notifies owners, gets court approval, and holds an auction where buyers bid on properties.

Here’s how it works:

1. Delinquent Taxes & Legal Action – The city reviews unpaid taxes and issues final warnings.
2. Auction Notices & Public Listings – The city publishes the list of properties scheduled for auction.
3. The Auction Process – Bidders compete in a live auction, and the highest bidder wins.
4. Payment Requirements – Buyers must meet deposit and full payment deadlines.
5. Court Confirmation & Property Transfer – The court approves the sale, and the buyer receives the deed.

1. Delinquent Taxes & Legal Action

Manassas follows a legal process before putting a property up for auction.

• The Treasurer’s Office reviews tax records and identifies delinquent properties.
• A Special Commissioner or tax sale service provider is assigned to manage the sale.
• Property owners receive final notices, warning them about the upcoming auction.
• If the tax debt remains unpaid, the city schedules the property for auction.

2. Auction Notices & Public Listings

Manassas ensures transparency by making auction details available to the public.

• The city publishes a list of properties before the auction.
• The notice includes property details, outstanding tax amounts, and sale terms.
• Property owners get one last chance to pay before the auction begins.

3. The Auction Process

Manassas holds live, competitive auctions where bidders can buy tax-delinquent properties.

• Auction Format – Sales may happen online or at a designated city location.
• Bidder Registration – Buyers must register before participating and follow auction rules.
• Competitive Bidding – The auctioneer starts bidding, and the highest bidder wins.
• Legal Paperwork – Winning bidders must sign a purchase contract immediately.

4. Payment Requirements

Winning bidders must meet payment deadlines to finalize their purchase.

• The buyer pays a deposit or full purchase amount, based on the auction terms.
• The city sets a payment deadline, usually 10 to 30 days after the auction.
• If a buyer fails to pay on time, the city may cancel the sale and offer the property to the next highest bidder.

5. Court Confirmation & Property Transfer

The sale must go through a legal process before the buyer takes ownership.

• The city submits the sale to the court for approval.
• Once the court confirms the sale, the buyer completes the final payment.
• The Special Commissioner transfers ownership through a deed.
• Buyers must cover deed recording fees and future property taxes.

What You Should Know Before Bidding

Tax sale properties come with important considerations. Buyers must understand their responsibilities before bidding.

1. Properties Sell As-Is

Manassas does not inspect properties before the sale.

• Buyers must research the property before bidding.
• The city does not guarantee the condition of any property.
• Some properties may need repairs or have existing damage.

2. Title and Liens

Tax sales clear past tax debts and city liens, but buyers should still check public records.

• Some properties may have additional legal claims or restrictions.
• A title search can help confirm ownership details and avoid surprises.
• Hiring a real estate attorney is recommended for title verification.

3. Legal and Financial Responsibilities

Winning bidders must handle all legal and financial obligations after the purchase.

• Buyers must pay for deed recording and any unpaid utility bills.
• Owners must stay current on future property taxes to avoid foreclosure.
• A real estate attorney can help buyers understand legal risks and title concerns.

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! 

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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