Stevens County Tax Deeds: The Affordable Way to Invest in Washington Real Estate

If you’re thinking about buying property for cheap and turning a solid profit, Stevens County, Washington might be just the place to start. Each year, the county sells off tax-foreclosed properties in an online auction. That means if someone hasn’t paid their property taxes for three or more years, the county can take that property and sell it to cover the debt. Investors like you can pick up land or homes at low prices through these auctions.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about tax deed sales in Stevens County—and why this area might be worth your attention.

What Type of Tax Sales Does Washington Use?

Washington is a tax deed state. That means when you win a property at auction, you don’t just get a lien—you get full ownership (after the payment is confirmed and deed recorded). No waiting around for a redemption period in most cases.

Here’s a quick look at the key details for Stevens County.

Important Details Table: Stevens County, WA

Feature	Details
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Typical Sale Date	December
Redemption Period	None, except for minors or legally incompetent persons (up to 3 years)
Interest Rate	N/A (this is a deed sale, not a lien sale)
Bid Method	Premium bid (highest bidder wins)
Deposit Required	Yes, deposit required on the auction site
Auction Platform	GovEase Stevens County Auction
Sale Contact Info	Treasurer’s Office
County Website	Stevens County Website

Why Tax Deed Investing in Washington is Worth a Look

Washington State offers an easy-to-understand system for tax deed investors. The lack of a long redemption period (except in special cases) means you take ownership quickly. If you do your homework and research each property carefully, the risk is manageable and the profit potential is real.

Many investors appreciate that the state is open to out-of-state and international buyers. Just make sure you’re not a county employee or closely related to one—that disqualifies you from bidding.

Fun Facts About Washington State

Population: Over 7.8 million residents
Income Growth: Washington has no state income tax, making it friendly for investors.
Foreclosure Law: Counties only foreclose after 3 full years of tax delinquency.
Military Protection: All sales follow the U.S. Service Members Civil Relief Act, so military members are protected from foreclosure.

Local Living: Attractions and Economy

Popular Attractions

Stevens County offers a rural lifestyle with easy access to lakes, national forests, and outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and fishing. Places like Colville National Forest and Lake Roosevelt are local favorites.

Transportation

You’ll find a mix of county roads and access to U.S. Route 395. While there’s no major airport in the county, Spokane International Airport is just under 2 hours away.

Economic Development

The county’s economy relies heavily on timber, agriculture, and some manufacturing. Remote work and tourism have grown in recent years.

Community Appeal

This is a quieter, nature-filled place, perfect for those who want to escape city noise. The area’s peace and privacy have made it attractive to retirees and remote workers alike.

Why Stevens County is a Smart Pick for Tax Deed Investors

High Returns, Lower Risk

Compared to real estate in cities like Seattle, Stevens County is much cheaper. Some homes go for $75,000–$140,000. If you get a deal at auction and sell later, the return can be strong—especially with home prices rising each year.

How the Auction Works

The auction is held online. You’ll need to register on the GovEase auction site, pay a deposit, and bid. The opening bid includes taxes, penalties, fees, and any included liens.

If you win, you pay the full amount by the deadline and get a tax deed. Keep in mind, properties can be redeemed up until the day before the sale unless protected by special law.

What You Can Expect in Returns

The real profit comes if you buy land or property well below market value and resell it later. With rising demand for rural homes and land, investors are starting to see better resale values each year.

Foreign Investor Participation

Out-of-state and international investors are welcome to bid. There are no residency restrictions, though you should check with your home country’s investment rules if you’re buying from abroad.

Due Diligence is a Must

Before bidding, you should:

• Visit or research the property
• Check for IRS liens or special land assessments
• Understand access, easements, and zoning

Many properties sold at auction are vacant land or unusable strips left over from survey mistakes. Some might be in flood zones or fire-prone areas. You can use the county’s GIS map or contact the Assessor’s Office to find more info.

Buying Tax Title (Unsold) Properties

If a property isn’t sold at auction, it becomes county-owned tax title property. These can be purchased later, often directly from the county.

These pieces are usually small or oddly shaped, but sometimes investors can find usable land for cheap without any bidding competition.

Pro Tips for Tax Deed Buyers

• Research thoroughly: Never bid without understanding what you’re buying.
• Check maps and visit: A property that looks good on paper may be on a cliff or in a swamp.
• Budget for cleanup or legal work: Some parcels may need title cleanup or land clearing.
• Watch for environmental risks: Wildfire and flooding risks are common in the area.

FAQs: Tax Deed Sales in Stevens County

Can I buy properties over-the-counter after the auction?
Yes. Unsold properties become tax title properties. You can contact the county to ask about purchasing them later.

Do I get a house when I win a bid?
Not usually. Most properties are land only. If a house is included, it may get redeemed before the sale.

Do I need to live in Washington to buy?
No. The auction is open to everyone except county employees and their immediate family.

What if I change my mind after buying?
All sales are final. You won’t get a refund if you didn’t do your research.

Useful Links

• Stevens County Tax Sale Info
• Stevens County Treasurer’s Office
• GovEase Auction Platform
• Stevens County Website
• 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

Don’t miss your chance to grab incredible tax sale deals! Check out our auction calendar and secure your spot in the next sale. Need help? Book a call now to get expert guidance on navigating the process with confidence. You can also explore our free resources for insider tips and strategies to make smart investments

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