Benton County’s Annual Tax Deed Auction: Your Guide to Getting In, Bidding Smart, and Winning

Looking for investment opportunities in Washington State? Benton County might be your next smart move. If you’re exploring tax deed investing, this county holds one auction each year, giving you a shot at owning real estate that others have let go due to unpaid property taxes.

Let’s walk through what makes this county—and the state of Washington—an interesting option for investors.

A Quick Look at Tax Deed Sales in Washington

Washington State doesn’t sell tax lien certificates like some other states. Instead, it uses tax deed sales, meaning the county sells full ownership of properties after taxes go unpaid for a set period. There’s no redemption period after the auction—once you buy it, it’s yours.

In Benton County, properties go to auction if taxes haven’t been paid for three years. The sale is online and happens once a year, usually in November, on GovEase.

Benton County Tax Deed Sale Information

Here’s a table with all the key facts about Benton County’s tax deed sale:

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed
Typical Sale Date	November
Redemption Period	None (Washington does not offer a redemption period after deed sale)
Interest Rate	Not applicable (deed sale, not a lien)
Bid Procedure	Premium Bid (highest bidder wins)
Deposit Required	$1,000 (cashier’s check); winning bid paid by wire transfer
Auction Website	GovEase
Treasurer Contact	Benton County Treasurer
Full County Website	Benton County Official Site
Auction Notice	Foreclosure & Distraint Info

How Benton County’s Auction Works

If taxes go unpaid for 3 years, the property is eligible for foreclosure. The county starts the process by filing a Certificate of Delinquency with the court.

Properties are sold as-is at auction on GovEase, usually in early November. You must register, pay a $1,000 deposit, and follow all bidding terms.

Winning bidders must pay by wire transfer within 48 hours. You’ll receive a Tax Deed, which gives you full ownership—but be sure to do your homework before bidding.

Fun Facts About Washington State

• No state income tax – a plus for investors
• Property tax history: Washington taxes properties annually, with foreclosures starting after 3 years of unpaid taxes
• Unique law: Washington is one of the few states that uses only tax deed sales—not tax liens

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

Washington has a little of everything—national parks, historic landmarks, and scenic river valleys. In Benton County, visitors enjoy:

• Parks like Badger Mountain
• Wine tours across Red Mountain AVA
• Historic downtown Kennewick and local museums

Transportation

• Interstate 82 runs through the county
• Tri-Cities Airport is nearby for regional flights
• Rail lines and trucking routes support local commerce

Economic Growth

Benton County’s strong sectors include:

• Agriculture (especially apples and wine grapes)
• Clean energy and environmental sciences
• Government and research-based employment

Community Life

The county offers outdoor fun, safe communities, and a growing number of shops and restaurants. It blends rural charm with modern conveniences.

Why Washington Is a Great Pick for Tax Deed Investors

Washington has a stable economy, no state income tax, and a real estate market that continues to grow. Benton County’s housing market is especially active, with rising prices and increasing demand.

High Returns with Low Risk

Because tax deed properties in Washington come with immediate ownership, investors don’t have to wait for a redemption period. That can mean quicker profits, especially for those who know how to spot a good deal.

Auction Bidding Process

• Properties start at the total due in back taxes, fees, and penalties
• Bidding goes to the highest offer
• Full payment is required within 48 hours

Maximum Potential Returns

Investors can:

• Renovate and resell properties
• Hold for long-term value increases
• Rent them out for passive income

Open to All Investors

The auction is open to everyone—local or out-of-state, and even international investors. You just need to register properly and follow payment guidelines.

How to Buy Over-the-Counter (OTC) in Washington

Some properties don’t sell at auction. These may be offered later as over-the-counter purchases.

Steps:

1. Contact the Benton County Treasurer’s Office
2. Ask about available unsold properties
3. Purchase at a fixed price without bidding

Pro Tips for Benton County Tax Deed Sales

• Always research before bidding. Use the county’s parcel viewer and property info.
• Double-check zoning, access, and any outstanding liens or code violations.
• Read the auction rules on GovEase before the event.
• Prepare funds ahead of time—no time extensions are given for payments.
• Properties are sold as-is, so assume they need work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to live in Washington to buy tax deed property?
No. Anyone can participate, even international buyers.

Can I see the inside of a property before I bid?
Usually not. Properties are sold as-is, and most are not open for viewing.

Where can I find the list of properties for sale?
A few weeks before the auction, the full list is posted on the Foreclosure Page.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind after bidding?
No. All sales are final. Make sure you’ve done your research.

What happens if I don’t pay after winning?
You’ll lose your $1,000 deposit and might be banned from future auctions.

Useful Links

• Benton County Tax Deed Info
• Benton County Treasurer
• Benton County Official Website
• GovEase Auction Platform
• Investing in Washington Tax Sales
• 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! 

Check Out Our Auction Calendar

Don’t miss the next tax sale. Check out our calendar to see upcoming auctions and plan ahead. If you need guidance or have questions about participating in tax sales, book a call now to connect with an expert who can help you navigate the process. Looking for more resources? Explore our free tools and guides to answer your questions and find tips for making confident investment decisions.

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