How Clallam County, Washington, Conducts Tax Sales

Clallam County, Washington, holds tax foreclosure sales for properties with unpaid taxes. These auctions give buyers a chance to purchase properties at lower prices. However, understanding the process is crucial before getting involved. Here’s how tax sales work in Clallam County.

How Properties End Up in a Tax Sale

Property owners must stay current on their taxes. If they don’t pay for three years, the Clallam 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 posts notices in local newspapers and online.

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

Steps in the Auction Process

Clallam 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 available properties before the auction.
2. Registration Required: Buyers must sign up on Public Surplus before bidding.
3. Deposit Requirement: A bank wire transfer deposit is required to participate.
4. Bidding Period: The auction runs for several days, allowing buyers to place bids.
5. Payment Deadline: The highest bidder must pay in full, including any buyer’s premium, by the deadline.
6. Ownership Transfer: The county issues a Tax Deed, but buyers must research title issues or encumbrances before bidding.

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

What Happens to Unsold Properties?

If a property doesn’t sell at auction, Clallam 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 Clallam County Treasurer’s Office for more information.

Important Things to Know Before Bidding

Before placing a bid, consider these key factors:

• Properties Sell As-Is: No guarantees about condition or title status.

• No Refunds: The county does not issue refunds, and all sales are final.

• Liens and Encumbrances May Exist: Buyers must check if a property has outstanding liens.

• Redemption Periods Apply: Some properties may have redemption periods, allowing former owners to reclaim them by paying all overdue taxes and fees.

• Due Diligence Required: Buyers should investigate title records, land use restrictions, and local regulations before bidding.

• Payment Compliance Is Critical: Winning bidders must pay in full by the deadline, or the county may re-auction the property.

Preparing for an Auction

1. Visit the Clallam County Treasurer’s Website – Review auction rules, property listings, and deadlines.
2. Research Property Titles – Check ownership history, unpaid liens, and legal restrictions.
3. Secure Funds in Advance – Have the required deposit and payment amount ready.
4. Monitor the Auction Closely – Stay updated and be prepared to act quickly.
5. Confirm Payment Details – Winning bidders must complete payments on time 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 to stay updated on upcoming tax sales. Don’t miss your chance to participate! If you need guidance or have questions, book a call with an expert to navigate the process with confidence. You can also access our free resources for answers and tips on making smart investment decisions.

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