Giles County, TN Tax Sales: A Complete Guide for Buyers

Giles County, Tennessee, auctions off tax-delinquent properties to recover unpaid property taxes. If you’re looking to invest, you need to understand how the process works.

How Giles County Tax Sales Work

Giles County holds in-person tax auctions at the courthouse. Buyers can bid on properties with unpaid taxes and potentially purchase them at a lower cost. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions

Key Auction Details

1. In-Person Auctions Only – All tax sales happen at the Giles County Courthouse.
2. Property Listings – The Clerk and Master’s website and local newspapers publish available properties at least 30 days before the auction.
3. Starting Bids – The auction starts at the total amount due, including unpaid taxes, interest, and court fees.
4. Bidding Process – Buyers place bids in person. The highest bid wins, but the court must approve the sale.
5. Payment Deadline – Winning bidders must pay in full within the county’s required timeframe.
6. Redemption Period – The original owner has up to one year to reclaim the property by paying all owed amounts.
7. Final Deed Issuance – If the owner does not redeem, the winning bidder receives a tax deed after the redemption period.
8. Quiet Title Action – Some buyers may need to file a lawsuit to clear any title issues before reselling or developing the property.

How to Participate in Giles County Tax Sales

1. Review Property Listings

• Search for properties on the Clerk and Master’s website and local newspapers.
• Verify tax records, liens, and property details.

2. Inspect Properties

• Drive by properties to check their location and condition.
• Use tax maps to confirm property details.
• Interior inspections are not allowed before the sale.

3. Attend the Auction in Person

• Arrive at the Giles County Courthouse on auction day.
• Bring valid identification and any required deposit.

4. Register to Bid

• Sign up before the auction starts at the courthouse.
• A deposit may be required to participate.

5. Start Bidding

• Compete in a live auction against other buyers.
• Bids must meet or exceed the starting bid amount.

6. Pay in Full If You Win

• The county requires full payment upfront.
• Accepted payment methods: cash, money order, or cashier’s check.
• Installment payments are not allowed.

7. Obtain Court Approval

• The Chancery Court must confirm the sale before ownership transfers.

8. Monitor the Redemption Period

• The original owner has up to one year to reclaim the property by paying all owed amounts, including penalties and fees.
• If the owner redeems, the winning bidder receives a refund.

9. File for a Quiet Title (If Needed)

• Some properties require a court process to ensure a clear title before resale.

10. Receive the Tax Deed

• If the property is not redeemed, the winning bidder gets a tax deed after the redemption period ends.

What Happens After Winning a Property?

1. Make Full Payment on Time – Missing the deadline voids the sale, and the property returns to auction.
2. Wait for the Redemption Period to End – The previous owner has one year to reclaim the property.
3. Confirm Property Liabilities – Some properties may have liens beyond unpaid taxes. Buyers must resolve any additional debts tied to the property.
4. Understand Legal Requirements – Some properties require a quiet title action before buyers gain full ownership.
5. Handle Evictions If Needed – If the property is occupied, buyers must follow legal eviction procedures.
6. Secure Title Insurance – Buyers may need legal steps to obtain clear title insurance.
7. Maintain the Property – Once the redemption period ends, buyers must pay future taxes and maintain the property.
8. File for Ownership Transfer – Buyers must submit the necessary paperwork to finalize the transfer.
9. Comply with Local Regulations – Some properties may have zoning restrictions or building code requirements.
10. Plan for Future Use – Buyers should consider development costs, repairs, or resale opportunities.

Things to Know Before Bidding

All Sales Are Final

Giles County does not offer refunds after a winning bid.

Properties Sell ‘As-Is’

The county does not guarantee property condition, title status, or access.

Some Properties Have Liens

Buyers should research title records before bidding.

Additional Fees May Apply

Buyers may have to cover legal fees, court costs, and title-clearing expenses.

Research Thoroughly

Verify ownership records, property conditions, and legal obligations before placing a bid.

Winning a Property Doesn’t Mean Immediate Ownership

The redemption period must pass before buyers gain full control.

Seek Legal Advice

Consulting a real estate attorney can help buyers handle title issues and legal processes.

Understand Future Tax Obligations

Buyers must pay future property taxes to avoid foreclosure.

Inspect the Neighborhood

Research surrounding property values, infrastructure, and community restrictions.

Be Ready for Additional Costs

Some properties may require repairs, legal fees, or back utility bill payments.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• Why Tennessee Tax Sales Are a Smart Investment Choice
• Let’s talk about redeemable tax deeds and how you can profit from them!
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 

Prepare for the Next Auction

Don’t let great deals pass you by! Browse our auction calendar and get ready to invest. Need expert advice? Schedule a call and access free resources for key strategies.

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