How Santa Rosa County, Florida, Conducts Tax Sales

Tax sales in Santa Rosa County, Florida, serve as a structured process to recover unpaid property taxes while providing opportunities for investors. This process ensures public funds are collected to support essential services and provides property owners ample time to resolve tax delinquencies. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding how these tax sales work.

Delinquency and Tax Certificate Sale

Addressing Delinquent Taxes

Property taxes in Santa Rosa County become delinquent on April 1 each year. Once delinquent, taxes accrue interest and penalties. The Tax Collector advertises these properties in a local newspaper, with the advertising costs added to the delinquent tax bill.

The Tax Certificate Sale

By June 1, the county conducts a Tax Certificate Sale, typically held online. This process allows investors to bid on tax certificates representing liens on properties with unpaid taxes. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions. Key details include:

Bidding Process:

  1. Investors bid on the lowest interest rate they’re willing to accept, starting from a maximum of 18%.
  2. The tax certificate is awarded to the bidder offering the lowest rate.
  3. A minimum interest rate of 5% applies if the interest earned is less than that amount, except for zero-percent bids.

Ownership Status:

Purchasing a tax certificate does not grant property ownership. Instead, it places a lien on the property, requiring the owner to pay the owed taxes, interest, and fees.

Tax Deed Application

If a tax certificate remains unpaid (unredeemed) for two years from the date of delinquency, the certificate holder can apply for a tax deed. This escalates the process and may lead to the sale of the property to recover unpaid taxes. Here’s how it works:

Application Requirements:

The certificate holder must pay additional costs, including title search fees, outstanding taxes, and application fees.

Notification:

The Tax Collector certifies a list of individuals to be notified and sends this certification to the Clerk of the Circuit Court, initiating the tax deed sale process.

Tax Deed Sale

Tax deed sales in Santa Rosa County are public auctions conducted by the Clerk of Court. Here’s what to expect:

Auction Logistics:

The county holds auctions at scheduled times and locations. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions

Bidders must register in advance and provide a deposit before participating.

Winning the Auction:

The tax deed goes to the highest bidder, who becomes the property’s new owner. However, buyers must note that sellers offer properties “as-is.”

Santa Rosa County Courthouse Florida

Important Considerations for Buyers

  1. Thorough Research

    Tax deed sales convey properties through a tax deed, but it does not guarantee a clear title.

    Buyers are encouraged to: Conduct title searches to identify liens or encumbrances that may survive the sale.

    Understand the legal responsibilities associated with purchasing properties through tax deed sales.
  2. Legal Compliance

    We strongly advise buyers to review Chapter 197 of the Florida Statutes and Chapter 12D-13 of the Florida Administrative Code to understand the regulations governing tax sales.

Why Participate in Santa Rosa County Tax Sales?

Santa Rosa County’s tax sale process is a transparent and regulated system that benefits the community, property owners, and investors. Whether you are looking to avoid tax delinquency or exploring investment opportunities, understanding the steps involved is essential for successful participation.

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Need A Hand?

Mark your calendar for upcoming tax sales and take the first step toward profitable investments! Don’t miss the chance to explore incredible opportunities at the next tax auction. Need help getting started? Book a call today to speak with an expert who can guide you every step of the way. Don’t forget to check out our free resources packed with tips, answers, and strategies to help you make smart, informed investment decisions.

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