Top 10 Over-the-Counter (OTC) Counties for Tax Liens & Deeds

Over-the-counter (OTC) properties could be a great option if you’re looking for tax lien and deed investments without the pressure of auctions. In this article, I’ll walk through 10 counties where you can find solid opportunities at your own pace. Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, these counties offer chances to invest without the typical rush of auction day. Let’s take a closer look at where you can find these deals.

Here’s a list of some of the top counties for over-the-counter tax lien and deed investing, explaining why they stand out and the investment opportunities they offer:

Los Angeles County, California (Deeds)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Los Angeles County offers a high volume of unsold properties, making it a great choice for OTC tax deed purchases. This county has one of the largest and most active real estate markets in the country, providing investors with valuable opportunities to purchase both residential and commercial properties at a discount.

Investment Opportunities:

• High Property Values: The county’s strong real estate market ensures that even unsold properties have significant potential value.
• Residential & Commercial Properties: A diverse portfolio of properties is available over the counter.
• Useful Link: Los Angeles County Tax Sale

Miami-Dade County, Florida (Liens & Deeds)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Miami-Dade County offers both tax lien and tax deed options. With interest rates of up to 18% on tax liens, investors can earn high returns, and if liens are not redeemed, they can acquire properties through tax deed sales.

Investment Opportunities:

• High Interest Rates: One of the highest interest rates in the country, up to 18%.
• Tax Deed Sales: If a lien isn’t redeemed within two years, investors can purchase the property at a discounted rate.
• Useful Link: Miami-Dade Tax Sale

Cook County, Illinois (Liens)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Cook County conducts “scavenger sales” for properties unsold at auction or Over-the-Counter (OTC), offering tax liens at steep discounts. The Chicago area provides numerous opportunities for investors looking for properties at a fraction of their original value.

Investment Opportunities:

• Discounted Tax Liens: Flexible bidding rules and steep discounts for properties that remain unsold after initial auctions.
• Potential for High Returns: Properties are often sold well below market value, making this county attractive for investors.
• Useful Link: Cook County Treasurer

Harris County, Texas (Deeds)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Harris County offers “struck-off” properties, which are unsold after tax auctions, providing investors the opportunity to purchase tax deeds at low prices. Texas’s tax deed system also includes a redemption period, offering additional returns to investors.

Investment Opportunities:

• High Interest on Redeemable Deeds: Texas allows the original owner to redeem the property with an interest rate of up to 25%.
• Low-Cost Properties: Properties available over the counter often come at significantly reduced prices.
• Useful Link: Harris County Tax Office

Maricopa County, Arizona (Liens)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Maricopa County offers OTC tax liens with an interest rate of up to 16%. The area’s large inventory of properties and year-round availability make it a prime spot for tax lien investors.

Investment Opportunities:

• High Interest Rate: Arizona allows up to 16% on tax liens purchased over the counter.
• Vacant Lots & Development Opportunities: Investors can acquire a variety of properties, including vacant lots ideal for development.
• Useful Link: Maricopa County Treasurer

Duval County, Florida (Liens & Deeds)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Duval County offers properties that weren’t sold at auction as “Lands Available for Taxes.” These properties are available at lower prices, providing a great entry point for investors.

Investment Opportunities:

• Steady Availability: Low competition and a constant supply of properties make it a great county for both new and experienced investors.
• Affordable Properties: Many properties come with low starting prices, reducing initial investment costs.
• Useful Link: Duval Clerk of Courts

Alameda County, California (Deeds)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Alameda County consistently offers a large number of unsold properties after auctions Over-the-Counter (OTC) , particularly in desirable areas, making it a strong option for investors looking for profitable tax deed purchases.

Investment Opportunities:

• High-Value Real Estate: Alameda County’s strong market provides opportunities for significant resale value.
• Residential and Commercial Properties: A wide range of properties is available.
• Useful Link: Alameda County Tax Collector

Jefferson County, Alabama (Liens)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Jefferson County provides a straightforward OTC tax lien process with high interest rates. Investors can purchase liens at very affordable prices and earn solid returns.

Investment Opportunities:

• High Interest Rates: Alabama offers up to 12% interest on tax liens, which can be very lucrative.
• Low-Cost Entry: Jefferson County offers tax liens at lower initial costs compared to other markets.
• Useful Link: Jefferson County Tax Sale

Wayne County, Michigan (Deeds)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Wayne County, home to Detroit, regularly has a large volume of unsold properties due to the region’s real estate struggles, offering deep discounts for investors.

Investment Opportunities:

• Low-Cost Properties: Many properties are available at a fraction of their market value, offering great potential for savvy investors.
• Large Inventory: Consistently high number of unsold properties each year.
• Useful Link: Wayne County Treasurer

Broward County, Florida (Liens & Deeds)

Why It’s a Top Choice:
Broward County offers both tax liens and deeds over-the-counter. Investors can purchase properties at reduced rates while taking advantage of Florida’s high-interest rates.

Investment Opportunities:

• High Demand Real Estate: Located in South Florida, Broward offers attractive properties with high investment potential.
• High Interest Rates: Florida’s tax liens earn up to 18% interest, making this county a lucrative option.
• Useful Link: Broward County Tax Sale

Key Takeaways for Over-the-Counter (OTC) Counties

• Low Competition: OTC sales allow you to avoid bidding wars and get properties directly.
• Higher Returns: States often provide the maximum interest rate on OTC liens, leading to higher returns for investors.
• Do Your Research: Investigate property conditions and check for other liens or title issues before purchasing.

Now that you’ve got the scoop on the top OTC counties, it’s time to take the next step. Explore these options, dive into the details, and see which one fits your investment strategy. Whether you’re looking for your first deal or adding to your portfolio, these counties offer great potential. Ready to make your move? Start your research and get in on the opportunity today. If you are still confused, book a call today, and I will be happy to help!

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