How Kittitas County, Washington, Conducts Tax Sales

Kittitas 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 bidding. Here’s how tax sales work in Kittitas 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 Kittitas 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 foreclosure notices online and in local newspapers.

• Final Payment Deadline: Owners can still pay overdue taxes before the auction to remove their property from the sale.

Steps in the Auction Process

Kittitas County lists properties for auction on Bid4Assets, an online auction platform. Here’s how the process works:

1. Property Listing: The Treasurer’s Office posts a list of delinquent properties online and at their office.
2. Registration Required: Buyers must register on Bid4Assets before bidding.
3. Deposit Requirement: A bank wire transfer deposit is required before participating in the auction.
4. Bidding Period: The auction remains open for several days, allowing buyers to place bids.
5. Winning the Auction: The highest bidder must pay the full amount, including any buyer’s premium, by the county’s deadline.
6. Ownership Transfer: The county issues a Tax Deed, but buyers must verify any remaining 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, Kittitas 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 Kittitas County Treasurer’s Office for available listings.

Important Things to Know Before Bidding

Before placing a bid, consider these key factors:

1. Properties Sell As-Is: The county does not guarantee condition or title status.
2. No Refunds: Sales are final. Buyers cannot request refunds after purchasing a property.
3. Outstanding Liens May Exist: Some properties may have existing liens that the new owner must resolve.
4. Timely Payment Is Required: Winning bidders must pay on time, or the county will relist the property for auction.
5. Redemption Periods May Apply: Some properties may allow former owners to reclaim them by paying overdue taxes and fees.
6. Research Is Essential: Buyers must investigate title history, land use rules, and potential environmental concerns before bidding.

Preparing for an Auction

• Visit the Kittitas County Treasurer’s Website – Review auction rules and available properties.

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

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

• Monitor the Auction Closely – Stay updated on bidding deadlines and auction updates.

• Complete the Purchase Quickly – Winning bidders must finalize payments promptly to secure ownership.

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

Check our auction calendar to find upcoming tax sales. If you’re new to tax sales or have questions, book a call with an expert today. You can also explore our free resources for helpful tips on making smart investment choices

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