How Chelan County, Washington, Conducts Tax Sales

Chelan County, Washington, holds tax foreclosure sales for properties with unpaid taxes. These auctions allow buyers to purchase properties at competitive prices. However, understanding the process is crucial before placing a bid. Here’s what you need to know about tax sales in Chelan County.

How Properties End Up in a Tax Sale

Property owners must pay their taxes on time. If they don’t pay for three years, the Chelan County Treasurer’s Office takes action:

• Foreclosure Process Begins: The Treasurer’s Office files a Certificate of Delinquency with the Superior Court.

• Notices Sent: Property owners and other interested parties receive foreclosure notifications.

• Public Notice Published: The county lists the foreclosure notice in local newspapers.

• Final Deadline: If the owner doesn’t settle the overdue taxes, the county moves the property to auction.

Steps in the Auction Process

Chelan County lists properties for auction on Public Surplus, an online auction platform. Here’s how the process works:

1. Property Listing: The Treasurer’s Office compiles a list of properties scheduled for auction.
2. Registration Required: Buyers must register on Public Surplus before placing bids.
3. Deposit Requirement: A $500 deposit is required, payable via bank wire transfer by the specified deadline.
4. Bidding Period: The auction typically lasts several days, and buyers compete for properties.
5. Payment Deadline: The highest bidder must pay the full amount, plus a 5% buyer’s premium, by the county’s deadline.
6. Ownership Transfer: The county issues a Tax Deed, but buyers should verify any existing liens or encumbrances before bidding.

Want to stay updated? Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled sales.

What Happens to Unsold Properties?

If no one buys a property at auction, Chelan County takes ownership and classifies it as tax-title property. The county may sell these properties later through:

• Another public auction

• Private negotiations

Interested in tax-title properties? Contact the Chelan County Treasurer’s Office for details on available properties.

Important Things to Know Before Bidding

Before placing a bid, consider these key factors:

1. Properties Sell As-Is: There are no warranties regarding condition or title status.
2. No Refunds: Buyers must pay attention to auction terms because refunds are not available.
3. Liens and Encumbrances: Some properties may have existing liens that the new owner must resolve.
4. Redemption Rights: Former owners who were minors or legally incapacitated at the time of foreclosure may redeem their property within three years.
5. Due Diligence Is Required: Buyers must research property records, land use regulations, and legal restrictions before bidding.
6. Legal Assistance Is Recommended: Consulting a real estate attorney or tax sale expert can help navigate potential risks.

Preparing for an Auction

• Visit the Chelan County Treasurer’s Website – Review auction rules, available properties, and bidding requirements.

• Research Property Titles – Investigate ownership history, unpaid liens, and any legal restrictions.

• Secure Funds in Advance – Make sure you have the required deposit and full payment ready.

• Monitor the Auction Closely – Stay updated and be ready to place your bids.

• Confirm Payment Details – Winning bidders must complete payments quickly to finalize the sale.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• 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! 

Get Ready for the Next Auction

Explore our auction calendar for upcoming tax sales and secure your opportunity. If you have questions or need guidance, book a call with an expert to navigate the process confidently. You can also access our free resources for insights and tips on making smart investment decisions

Sign up or log in to view the full content.