Everything You Need to Know About Buying Tax Deed Property in Roanoke County

If you’ve been looking for a smart real estate investment in Virginia, Roanoke County offers some great tax deed sale opportunities. Whether you’re local or investing from another state, Roanoke makes it easy to get involved in tax deed auctions.

Overview of Virginia’s Tax Deed System

In Virginia, most counties—including Roanoke—use the tax deed sale system. That means when a property owner doesn’t pay their property taxes, the property can be sold to recover the taxes owed. These sales happen through public auctions that are open to everyone.

Compared to other real estate investments, tax deed sales can offer high returns with relatively low risk—as long as you do your research.

Roanoke County Tax Deed Auction Details

Here’s a quick table with everything you need to know about Roanoke County’s tax deed sales:

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Typical Sale Date	Varies – Check the Judicial Sales page
Redemption Period	None after auction
Interest Rate	Not applicable (property is sold, not liened)
Bid Procedure	Premium bidding
Deposit Required	10% of purchase price (cash, cashier’s check, or pre-approved personal check)
Buyer’s Premium	5% added to winning bid
Final Payment Due	Within 15 days after court approval
Auction Location	Roanoke County Admin Center, 5204 Bernard Dr SW, Roanoke, VA 24018
County Website	Roanoke County Website
Treasurer Contact	Roanoke County Treasurer’s Office

For full terms, visit the auctioneer’s site.

What Makes Roanoke County a Great Spot for Tax Deed Investing?

Roanoke County is an affordable real estate market with steadily rising home values. The median home sold price was $320,197, up 8.6% from the previous year. One-bedroom homes had the highest jump in price—24.8% increase over last year.

These sales offer properties free of liens, and since there’s no redemption period, winning bidders can take ownership sooner compared to lien sales.

Fun Facts About Virginia and Roanoke County

• Virginia’s Population: Over 8.7 million.
• Roanoke County History: It was officially established in 1838.
• Property Tax in Virginia: One of the lower average property tax rates in the U.S.
• No Statewide Redemption Period: In tax deed counties like Roanoke, the redemption happens before the court sale, not after.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions
Roanoke County features scenic parks, cultural centers, and museums. Outdoor lovers enjoy the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, while history fans can explore Civil War landmarks and local heritage museums.

Transportation
You’ll find well-connected roads, nearby airports, and easy access to Interstate 81.

Economic Development
Major industries in the area include healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing. There’s steady growth in logistics and small business support as well.

Community Appeal
Roanoke offers festivals, breweries, music venues, and outdoor events year-round. There’s also a growing trend in eco-tourism and hiking thanks to the region’s beautiful trails.

Why Virginia is a Smart Pick for Tax Deed Investors

Virginia is one of the few states that still allows open access to tax deed sales without big hurdles. It’s a low-risk investment with potential for high returns, especially when you focus on growing areas like Roanoke County.

Auction Process in Roanoke County

1. Register at the auction site by 9:00 AM.
2. Bring your driver’s license and bank letter if paying by personal check.
3. Place your bid in person.
4. If you win, pay 10% immediately (plus 5% buyer’s premium).
5. Remaining balance is due within 15 days after court approval.
6. Title is transferred by special warranty deed.

How Much Can You Earn?

It depends on the property and how competitive the bidding is. Because there’s no redemption period and you gain full ownership, you can resell or rent it fairly quickly.

Can Foreign Investors Join?

Yes, tax deed sales in Roanoke County are open to out-of-state and international investors. You just need to attend in person or send someone on your behalf with proper documentation.

Why Doing Your Research Matters

Before you bid, always:

• Check if the property is accessible.
• Look up zoning or land use rules.
• Search for environmental restrictions or unpaid utility bills.
• Review title reports and neighborhood info.

Skipping due diligence can lead to big problems—like buying landlocked property or one with demolition orders.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Properties

If properties aren’t sold at the auction, they may be available OTC. Contact the Roanoke County Treasurer’s Office for more information.

Benefits of OTC Purchases:

• No bidding competition
• Fixed price
• Time to research before you buy

Pro Tips

• Show up early. Some auctions fill fast.
• Read all property info ahead of time.
• Bring proof of funds.
• Visit the property if you can.
• Make sure your check is pre-approved if you plan to use a personal check.

FAQs

Is there a redemption period in Roanoke County?
No. Redemption happens before the sale. Once the property is sold and confirmed by the court, the buyer gets full ownership.

Do I need to be at the auction in person?
Yes. Roanoke County requires in-person bidding.

Can I inspect the property before the sale?
Yes, but at your own risk. There are no open house tours.

Can I get financing?
No. The sale is a cash deal. You must pay the balance within 15 days of court confirmation.

Are foreign buyers allowed?
Yes, Roanoke County allows non-residents and international investors.

Useful Links

• Roanoke County Judicial Sales Info
• Roanoke Treasurer’s Office
• Auction Details (Woltz)
• Roanoke County Government Site
• 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! 

Call to Action

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