Understanding Okeechobee County, Florida, Tax Sales

Okeechobee 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 Okeechobee County Tax Collector’s Office holds an annual tax certificate sale on or before June 1 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 Okeechobee County at 18% interest.

Redemption Period:

Property owners have up to two years from April 1 of the year the tax certificate was issued to redeem the certificate by paying the delinquent taxes plus interest. If not redeemed within this period, the certificate holder can initiate a tax deed application to foreclose on the property.

Tax Deed Sales

Application Process:

After holding a tax certificate for at least two years from April 1 of the year the certificate was issued, and if the property owner has not redeemed it, the certificate holder can apply for a tax deed. The Tax Collector’s Office initiates this process, requiring payment of all applicable fees and costs.

Public Auction:

The Okeechobee 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, and the proceeds pay off the outstanding tax obligations.

Opening Bid:

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

Okeechobee County Judicial Center Florida

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 Okeechobee County Clerk of the Circuit Court’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 of $200 or 5% of the amount bid, whichever is greater, at the time of the tax deed sale. Make payments using cash, a cashier’s check, or an official bank check approved by the Clerk.
  3. As-Is Sale: The seller offers properties “as-is,” without warranties regarding 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

Okeechobee 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?

Check out our Auction Calendar for upcoming tax sales and seize the opportunity to invest! Need help navigating the process? Book a call now to connect with an expert who can guide you every step of the way. Don’t forget to check out our free resources for answers to your questions and practical tips to make informed and confident investments.

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