How Walla Walla County, Washington, Conducts Tax Sales

Walla Walla 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 participating. Here’s how tax sales work in Walla Walla County.

How Properties End Up in a Tax Sale

Property owners must keep their taxes current. If they don’t pay for three years, the Walla Walla 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 in local newspapers and online.

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

Steps in the Auction Process

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

1. Property Listing: The Treasurer’s Office posts a list of delinquent properties online for public review.
2. Registration Required: Buyers must register on GovEase before participating in the auction.
3. Deposit Requirement: A bank wire transfer deposit is required to place bids.
4. Bidding Period: The auction lasts several days, allowing buyers to place competitive 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, Walla Walla 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 Walla Walla 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. Encumbrances and 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, zoning restrictions, and potential legal issues before bidding.

Preparing for an Auction

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

• Research 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 auction details and place competitive bids.

• 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 and be ready to bid. Don’t miss your chance to secure incredible deals at the next tax sale! Need expert guidance? Book a call now and get insider tips to navigate the process with confidence. Explore our free resources for key strategies and smart investment moves

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