How Newport News Conducts Tax Sales: A Simple Guide

Introduction

Newport News, Virginia, holds tax auctions to recover unpaid property taxes by selling tax-delinquent properties. These sales give buyers a chance to invest in real estate at competitive prices. Unlike traditional home sales, tax auctions follow a structured legal process.

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

How the Process Works

Newport News follows a clear process for tax sales:

1. Identifying Properties – Officials review tax records and select properties with unpaid taxes.
2. Auction Preparation – A team organizes a timed auction that supports online and in-person bidding.
3. Public Notice – The city website and local media publish auction notices at least four weeks before the sale.
4. Auction Day – Buyers place bids, and the highest bidder wins the property.

How to Register and Bid

Registering for the Auction

• Sign up online before the auction begins.
• Provide personal details and proof of funds during registration.
• Get approved and receive detailed bidding instructions.

Bidding in the Auction

• Place bids actively during the auction.
• Monitor real-time bid updates and receive alerts if someone outbids you.
• Use maximum bid settings and auto-bidding to manage your strategy.

Payment and Completion

Winning bidders must complete payments on time to finalize the purchase.

• Deposit Requirement – Pay 25% of the winning bid or the minimum required by auction rules immediately after the auction closes.
• Buyer’s Premium – An additional fixed percentage applies to the final bid amount.
• Final Payment – Complete the balance within the specified deadline using certified funds, cashier’s check, money order, or wire transfer. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.

If you fail to pay on time, you forfeit your deposit and may be barred from future auctions.

Due Diligence and Property Inspection

Before bidding, research the property carefully.

Inspect the Property

• All properties sell “as-is, where-is, and if-is.”
• Conduct an inspection if possible.
• Use Newport News GIS data and tax records to check ownership history and liens.

Verify Property Information

• Contact city officials to confirm auction details.
• Make sure the property fits your investment goals.

Additional Auction Details

• Pre-bidding Period – Some auctions allow early bidding, giving buyers time to review properties and place initial bids.
• Court Confirmation – After the auction, the local court confirms the sale to ensure legal compliance.
• Financing Responsibility – Buyers must arrange their own financing, as the auction sale does not depend on loan approval.

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! 

Newport News holds public tax auctions to sell tax-delinquent properties. Buyers must register online, actively bid, and complete payments on time. Since all properties sell as-is, doing thorough research before bidding is essential.

Stay updated on future sales—check the Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

Call to Action

Don’t miss out on a great investment opportunity. Visit our auction calendar today and explore available properties. If you need guidance, book a call us or browse our free resources for valuable investment tips.

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