Pierce County Washington Tax Deed Sale Guide: How to Buy Foreclosure Properties Online

If you’ve ever thought about buying property through tax sales, Pierce County in Washington might be worth a look. Here, when people don’t pay their property taxes for three years or more, the county puts their properties up for public auction.

This guide walks you through what to expect from Pierce County’s tax deed sale process—and why this area could offer smart opportunities for investors.

How Tax Sales Work in Washington State

Washington is a tax deed state. This means when a property is auctioned off due to unpaid taxes, the winning bidder receives full ownership—no redemption period applies in most cases.

Tax deed investing here comes with some promising returns, especially when properties are picked up below market value. The key is doing your homework before you bid.

Pierce County Tax Deed Auction – Key Details

Here’s a quick table with the important facts about the tax deed sale in Pierce County:

Detail	Information
Sale Type	Tax Deed
Typical Sale Month	November
Redemption Period	None (except in rare legal exceptions)
Bid Procedure	Premium bid (highest bid wins)
Deposit Requirement	Required to qualify for bidding (amount varies by sale)
Auction Platform	Bid4Assets
Contact Email	[email protected]
County Foreclosure Page	Foreclosure Info
Official County Site	Pierce County Website

How the Auction Works

1. Properties are listed online with parcel details, maps, and starting bids.
2. You must register and submit a deposit on the auction site.
3. The auction goes live online. Highest bidder wins.
4. Payment is due fast. You typically have 1–2 business days to pay via wire transfer.
5. Treasurer’s Deed is issued within 30 days.

Note: There is no redemption period once the property is sold. The previous owner can’t get it back—except in very rare situations.

Important Reminders

• All properties are sold as-is. You get what you buy—even if it has problems.
• Title insurance may be delayed up to three years.
• Always research title history, property condition, zoning rules, and neighborhood factors before bidding.

Interesting Facts About Pierce County Real Estate

• Average Home Price (2024): Around $489,000
• Popular Cities: Tacoma, Puyallup, Bonney Lake
• Property Tax Growth: In 2021, the average taxable income was $89,576, a 15% jump from the year before
• Risk Areas: About 15% of homes are at high risk for flooding. Around 36% have some wildfire risk
• Living Costs: A family of four spends roughly $1,643/month on housing

Attractions and Economy in Pierce County

Things to Do

• Parks and nature trails (Mount Rainier nearby)
• Local theaters, museums, and waterfront spots
• Historic districts and downtown Tacoma

Transportation

• Easy highway access (I-5)
• Rail service (Amtrak, Sound Transit)
• Airports nearby (Seattle-Tacoma International Airport)

Business and Jobs

• Key sectors: Military, logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare
• Growth in aerospace and clean energy industries

Lifestyle Appeal

• Affordable compared to Seattle
• Outdoor adventures, boating, and hiking
• Strong local community vibe

Why Pierce County is a Good Spot for Tax Sale Investors

• High return potential: Property values are growing steadily
• No redemption period: You get the property faster than in most states
• Low competition: Some properties sell with only a few bids
• Online auction access: You can bid from anywhere

Smart Ways to Maximize Returns

• Bid carefully: Know the property’s backstory
• Look for undervalued homes in growing neighbourhoods
• Factor in environmental risks like flood zones
• Check local zoning rules

FAQs – Pierce County Tax Sales

Can anyone bid in the auction?
Yes, both U.S. residents and international investors can take part.

Do I get the property right away?
Yes, after payment and paperwork, the county issues the deed—usually within 30 days.

Can I finance my bid?
No, full payment must be made by wire transfer shortly after the auction.

What if no one bids on a property?
It becomes a tax title property, which the county may sell later through other methods.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) in Pierce County

If a property doesn’t sell at auction, it might be available as an OTC (over-the-counter) sale. You can contact the county to negotiate directly.

• No competition
• Fixed pricing
• Still need to do your research

Learn more about Purchasing Foreclosure Property

Final Thoughts

Pierce County offers a strong mix of value, convenience, and potential when it comes to tax deed sales. While the returns can be great, these investments still require research and a good plan.

Before jumping in, do your homework—especially title searches and property inspections.

Pro Tips

• Register early on the auction site
• Read all terms of sale carefully
• Drive by the property if possible
• Avoid bidding wars—stick to your budget
• Contact the county if you’re unsure about the process

Useful Links

• Pierce County Foreclosure Info
• Auction Listings and Registration
• How to Buy Foreclosure Property
• 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

Keep track of the Auction Calendar and take the first step toward participating in these opportunities. Don’t miss out! If you need expert guidance, book a call with a professional who can guide you through every stage of the process. Additionally, explore our free resources for tips and strategies to make well-informed investment decisions.

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