This guide explains how Platte County’s delinquent tax certificate sale works, including auction dates, registration, bidding, returns, and tips for success. To start, if you are interested in participating in a Platte County Tax Lien auction, understanding the process ahead of time is important. In addition, knowing the key steps can help you avoid surprises, plan your budget, and bid with more confidence. Finally, having a clear game plan going in can improve your chances of a clean, profitable purchase.

Platte County lies just north of Kansas City in northwest Missouri. Rolling prairie, river towns, and suburban growth make the county diverse. Its strong economy and high household income reduce the risk of tax defaults.

What is Platte County’s Tax Lien Investing

Missouri collects unpaid real estate taxes by selling tax lien certificates. In Platte County, the collector auctions a certificate of purchase, which creates a lien on the property rather than immediate ownership. As a result, the winning bidder pays the delinquent taxes and can earn interest if the owner redeems. However, if the owner does not redeem within the statutory period, the certificate holder may then apply for a collector’s deed. The short redemption period and attractive interest rates make these certificates appealing.

Important Details about Platte County Tax Lien Sale

Fun Facts About the County

• Platte County’s population reached about 109,000 in 2023, growing roughly 1.6 % from the previous year.
  
• The median household income was about $95,748, one of the highest in Missouri.
  
• Median home value stood around $317,600, and homeownership was about 67 %.
  
• Snow Creek Ski & Snowboard Area, a Harley‑Davidson assembly plant, and historic river towns draw visitors.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

• Activities: Shop and dine in Parkville and Weston, explore Zona Rosa, and try your luck at Argosy Casino. Wineries, orchards, and brewpubs add local flavor; Snow Creek and the Harley‑Davidson factory offer unique tours.
  
• Transport hub: Interstate 29 and Kansas City International Airport give the county excellent highway and air links.
  
• Economic strength: Aviation, logistics, and manufacturing drive the local economy. In 2023, the county’s gross domestic product topped $9.7 billion.
  

Auction Process for Platte County Tax Lien Certificate Sales

Platte County’s delinquent tax certificate sale takes place once a year on the fourth Monday in August at 10:00 a.m. Central Time in the county commission room of the administration building. The collector publishes a list of properties for three consecutive weeks before the sale, and bidders must appear in person. Missouri residents and businesses may bid, while out‑of‑state bidders must file a written consent to county jurisdiction and appoint a local agent. To begin, bidding opens at the total of taxes, penalties, and costs. From there, the highest bidder wins the certificate and must pay in full on the day of sale. Otherwise, failure to pay can result in a 25% penalty. After payment, the collector records and mails a certificate of purchase. As a result, the buyer holds a lien rather than ownership.

How the Auction Works

Expected Returns and Redemption

Interest is earned only when the owner redeems. In that case, Missouri law allows up to 10% annual interest on the tax amount and sale costs. Next, if the certificate holder pays subsequent taxes, those amounts earn 8% per year. However, premiums paid above the tax amount do not earn interest and may not be refunded. Meanwhile, first and second offering properties can be redeemed anytime within one year, whereas third-year properties have a 90-day redemption period. Finally, if redemption does not occur and the holder follows the notice requirements, a collector’s deed may be issued.

Due Diligence and Investor Tips

Buying a tax lien without research can lead to costly surprises. Before bidding, drive by the property to confirm it exists and assess its condition. Conduct a title search to identify mortgages or federal liens that survive the sale. Review county zoning rules and check for special assessments. Estimate subsequent taxes and fees so you are prepared to pay them during the redemption period. Out‑of‑state investors should complete consent forms and appoint a local agent ahead of time.

Conclusion

Platte County’s annual tax lien certificate sale offers investors a chance to earn high interest while helping the county collect unpaid taxes. The auction occurs on the fourth Monday in August, begins at 10 a.m., and requires in‑person registration and payment. Owners can redeem within one year (or 90 days on third offerings) by paying taxes plus interest. If redemption fails and legal requirements are met, the certificate holder may acquire the deed. Strong economic fundamentals, a short redemption period and clear procedures make Platte County an attractive location for tax lien investing.

Pro Tips

• Arrive early to complete registration.
  
• Use GIS and assessor tools to research parcels before bidding.
  
• Visit properties to check occupancy and condition.
  
• Keep detailed records of taxes and fees for reimbursement.
  

FAQs for Platte County Tax Lien Certificates

Useful Links

• Platte County Collector’s Office
• Platte County Information Link
• Platte County Website

Need a Hand?

Tax lien investing can be complex. If you need guidance, explore free resources, check our auction calendar, or book a call with us. Our expert advice helps you understand the process and invest wisely.

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About Dustin Hahn

Dustin Hahn is a Tax Lien & Deed investor with over 22 years of experience and hundreds of deals under his belt. He created Tax Lien School.com to help you buy Tax Deeds up to 90% off mortgage free and earn up to 36% ROI with Tax Liens. This site was voted the “Most Useful Resource” for new investors. Dustin’s YouTube Channel is the #1 Channel on Tax Liens & Deeds with over 98,000 Subscribers and 3600 videos to help you start. “The Best Time To Start Real Estate Investing Was 20 Years Ago, The Second Best Time Is TODAY!”

20+yrs

5–10deals/mo

2009TLS founded