Everything You Need to Know About Kitsap County, Washinton Tax Deed Sales

If you’re looking for a way to pick up real estate at a major discount, Kitsap County gives you that shot once a year. Every December, they hold a tax deed auction, where properties with unpaid taxes are sold to the highest bidder.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know about investing in tax deed properties in Kitsap County and why Washington State can be a great place to do it.

Tax Sales in Washington State: A Quick Overview

Washington is a tax deed state, not a tax lien state. That means when you buy at a tax sale, you’re buying full ownership of the property—not just the right to collect back taxes.

In Washington, counties can sell properties when taxes have gone unpaid for three years. Once it reaches that point, the county treasurer starts foreclosure, and the property is auctioned off.

These sales often attract real estate investors looking for high returns and low entry costs. But while there’s great opportunity, it’s also important to do your research.

Kitsap County Tax Sale Details

Here’s a clear breakdown of the current process in Kitsap County:

Category	Details
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Typical Sale Date	December
Auction Platform	Public Surplus
Redemption Period	None (except for IRS liens – 120 days)
Interest Rate	Not applicable (this is a deed sale, not a lien)
Bid Method	Premium Bid – The highest bidder wins
Deposit Required	$2,500 refundable + $35 registration fee (via Bid4Assets)
Buyer Premium	5% of final bid (minimum $1)
Auction Terms	Properties sold “as-is,” no warranties, no title insurance guarantee
County Treasurer Site	Kitsap Treasurer
Auction Information	Foreclosure Info
Sale Contact	Contact Treasurer

What Makes Kitsap County Stand Out?

Kitsap County’s online auction is only held once a year, and that means serious competition and limited chances. But for prepared buyers, it’s a strong investment area. Properties are listed weeks ahead of the sale, with parcel info, starting bids, and auction terms available on the county’s auction page.

The catch? You need to do your own homework. The county does not guarantee anything about the condition, zoning, or legal status of the properties.

That means: no title insurance, no property inspections by the county, and you’re responsible for checking any local rules or restrictions.

Fun Facts About Washington State

• Washington has no state income tax, making it one of the more investor-friendly states.
• Real estate laws in Washington allow counties to sell tax-foreclosed property after just three years of unpaid taxes.
• Washington was the first state in the U.S. to legalize recreational cannabis, adding to its unique regulatory landscape.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions
Washington is full of beautiful parks, coastal spots, and history. From Olympic National Park to waterfront cities like Seattle and Bremerton, there’s something for everyone.

Transportation
Washington has major interstates, ferry systems, and railways. Kitsap County itself is connected to Seattle via ferry, making it a great spot for commuters.

Economic Growth
The state’s economy thrives on technology (thanks to companies like Microsoft and Amazon), military (especially around Bremerton), shipbuilding, agriculture, and aerospace.

Community Life
Kitsap County is known for outdoor activities, historic small towns, and plenty of parks and green spaces.

Why Washington is Great for Tax Deed Investors

Strong Real Estate Market
Kitsap County’s housing market has stayed strong even with higher mortgage rates. Properties under $400,000 sell the fastest, with very low inventory—about 1.5 months’ supply.

Investment Stability
Experts predict no crash here. Lending is more strict than in the past, and most homeowners have solid equity. That helps keep foreclosures down and investment risks manageable.

Low-Risk Opportunity
Unlike liens, deed sales give you the property right away, so you don’t have to wait out a redemption period—except in the rare case of federal liens.

How the Auction Works

1. Check the Foreclosure List – Available weeks before the auction.
2. Register – Use Bid4Assets.
3. Deposit Funds – $2,500 refundable deposit + $35 registration fee.
4. Bid Online – Bidding starts at the total taxes owed.
5. Payment Deadline – If you win, you must pay fast or lose the deal.
6. Receive Treasurer’s Deed – No guarantees, so do your research.

Maximum Potential Returns

You can score a property for well below market value, then rent or sell for profit. Because there’s no redemption period, the property is yours once the sale is final. That makes Washington deed sales more direct compared to lien states.

Can Foreign Investors Join?

Yes, Washington allows both U.S. and international buyers. You don’t have to live in the state to bid on properties.

Doing Your Research (Due Diligence)

Before bidding, here’s what you must do:

• Check with the county planning office for zoning rules.
• Look for easements or restrictions.
• Consider doing a title search.
• Visit the property location—just don’t trespass.
• Confirm if there are structures or if it’s just land.
• Check for association dues or local fees.

Skipping these steps can lead to serious surprises—like buying land with no access or expensive cleanup issues.

Buying Unsold Properties (Over-the-Counter)

Not all properties sell at the auction. Unsold parcels go into the tax title inventory. These may be sold later or available for direct purchase or negotiation with the county.

Benefits of buying over-the-counter:

• No bidding competition
• Often lower prices
• Fixed terms

Why Washington is a Top State for Tax Deed Investing

Washington has strong job growth, no income tax, and a wide mix of properties. Whether you’re buying land, a small house, or a commercial lot, the opportunities are real.

Pro Tips for Success

• Always read the fine print in the auction terms.
• Don’t skip a physical drive-by of the property.
• Make sure funds are ready to go before auction day.
• Check zoning and building restrictions with the county.
• Consider working with a local real estate attorney or title company.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I back out after winning the auction?
No. If you don’t pay, you lose your deposit and the property.

Is title insurance available?
Usually, not right away. Many insurers won’t cover these properties for up to 10 years.

What happens to unpaid liens?
Most are wiped out, but IRS liens may survive for up to 120 days.

Can I finance the property?
No. You must pay in full right after the auction.

Are these properties livable?
Not always. Some may be vacant land or need repairs. Always inspect if possible.

Useful Links

• Kitsap County Treasurer
• Foreclosure Auction Info
• Kitsap County Auction Page
• Foreclosure FAQs (PDF)
• Bid4Assets Kitsap Listings
• 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! 

Take Action Now

You don’t want to miss the next tax sale, so Check out our Auction Calendar. It’s a great chance to find valuable properties or investment opportunities. Register and start preparing now.

If you’re new to the process or have questions, schedule a call with an expert to get step-by-step guidance. Explore our free resources for helpful tips to make smart and informed decisions. Take control of your investment journey today.

Sign up or log in to view the full content.