Understanding Hernando County, Florida, Tax Sales

Hernando County, Florida, conducts tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes and return properties to the tax rolls. Managed by the Tax Collector’s Office and the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, these sales involve two primary methods: tax certificate sales and tax deed sales. Here’s an overview of the process:

Tax Certificate Sales

Annual Auction:

The Hernando County Tax Collector’s Office conducts an annual tax certificate sale by the end of May each year. This sale is conducted online. Investors bid on tax certificates for properties with delinquent taxes, paying the owed taxes and obtaining a lien against the property. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions

Bidding Process:

The auction operates in a reverse bidding format, starting at an 18% interest rate. Bidders compete by accepting lower interest rates, and the certificate is awarded to the bidder willing to accept the lowest rate. If no bids are received, the certificate is issued to Hernando County at 18% interest.

Redemption Period:

Property owners have up to two years from the date of the tax certificate’s issuance to redeem the certificate by paying the delinquent taxes plus interest. If the certificate is not redeemed within this period, the certificate holder may apply for a tax deed to foreclose on the property.

Tax Deed Sales

Application Process:

After holding a tax certificate for at least two years, and if the property owner has not redeemed it, the certificate holder can apply for a tax deed through the Tax Collector’s Office. This process requires payment of all applicable fees and costs.

Public Auction:

After processing the application, the Hernando County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller schedules the property for a public auction. Online platforms hold these auctions. The highest bidder buys the property.

Opening Bid:

The opening bid includes unpaid taxes, interest, administrative fees, and other costs. For homestead properties, the total opening bid also includes one-half of the assessed value.

Hernando County Florida Courthouse

Important Considerations

  1. Due Diligence: Buyers must conduct thorough research on properties before participating in tax deed sales. Detailed information, including ownership and legal descriptions, is available through the Hernando County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller’s website. The Clerk’s Office does not provide legal advice or assist in researching properties.
  2. Payment Requirements: Winning bidders must provide a non-refundable deposit equal to 5% of the final bid or $200, whichever is greater, at the time of the sale. Make payments in cash or with certified funds. If the successful bidder fails to post the deposit immediately, the system invalidates the bid and restarts the bidding process.
  3. As-Is Sale: The seller offers properties “as-is,” without warranties about their condition, title, or location. Buyers assume responsibility for resolving any issues related to the property after purchase.

Steps to Participate

Tax Certificate Sales:

Register and submit your deposit.

Bid on tax certificates and secure liens on delinquent properties.

Tax Deed Sales:

Hold a tax certificate that remains unredeemed for two years? Apply for a tax deed to foreclose on the property.

Participate in the public auction for tax-deeded properties.

Useful Links

Hernando County’s tax sale process provides opportunities for investors to earn interest or acquire properties while helping the county recover unpaid taxes. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time participant, understanding the process and performing due diligence is key to success.

Need Assistance?

Explore our auction calendar to stay updated on upcoming tax sales—don’t let these opportunities slip away! If you need assistance or have questions about navigating tax sales, book a call today to connect with an expert who can guide you every step of the way. Be sure to check out our free resources for valuable tips, answers, and strategies to help you make smart investment decisions

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