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

Marshall County, Tennessee, holds tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. When property owners fail to pay, the county auctions off these properties to collect what is owed. If you’re considering bidding, this guide will walk you through the process, from participating in an auction to securing ownership.

How Marshall County Tax Sales Work

Before jumping into the bidding process, it’s important to understand how tax sales operate in Marshall County. The county follows a structured procedure to auction off tax-delinquent properties. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions

• In-Person Auctions Only – All tax sales take place at the Marshall County Courthouse.

• Property Listings – The Clerk and Master’s website and local newspapers publish available properties before the auction.

• Starting Bids – Bidding starts at the total amount due, which includes unpaid taxes, interest, and court fees.

• Bidding Process – Buyers place bids in person. The highest bid wins, but the Chancery Court must confirm the sale.

• Payment Deadline – Winning bidders must pay in full immediately using cash, money order, or check.

• Redemption Period – The previous owner has up to one year from the confirmation date to reclaim the property by paying all owed amounts.

• Deed Transfer – If the owner does not reclaim the property within the redemption period, the buyer receives a tax deed.

• Title Clearance – Some properties require a quiet title action before resale or development.

How to Participate in Marshall County Tax Sales

If you’re interested in bidding, follow these steps to participate in the auction. Preparation is key to making an informed and successful purchase.

1. Review Property Listings – Find available properties in the newspaper and on the Clerk and Master’s website. Research tax records, liens, and property details.
2. Inspect Properties – Drive by properties, check tax maps, and confirm locations before bidding. Interior inspections are not allowed.
3. Attend the Auction – Arrive at the Marshall County Courthouse on the auction date with identification and an accepted payment method.
4. Register to Bid – Sign up before the auction begins. Some counties require a deposit to participate.
5. Start Bidding – Compete in a live auction. The highest bid must meet or exceed the starting amount.
6. Complete Payment – Pay the full amount in cash, money order, or check at the time of the sale.
7. Obtain Court Approval – The Chancery Court must confirm all sales before ownership is finalized.
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.
9. Check for Additional Liens – Some properties may have outstanding liens beyond unpaid taxes.
10. Receive the Deed – If the owner does not reclaim the property, the county issues a tax deed to the buyer.
11. File for a Quiet Title – If necessary, buyers should file a quiet title action to clear ownership issues.
12. Comply with Local Codes – Buyers must ensure properties meet building codes and zoning laws before making improvements.

What Happens After Winning a Property?

Winning a property at a tax sale doesn’t mean you take ownership right away. There are important steps and responsibilities to follow before you can claim full ownership.

• Full Payment Is Due Immediately – Failure to pay at the auction cancels the sale.

• The Redemption Period Applies – The previous owner has one year to reclaim the property.

• Legal Steps May Be Required – Some buyers file a quiet title action to clear ownership rights.

• Evictions May Be Necessary – If the property is occupied, buyers must follow legal eviction procedures.

• Additional Costs May Apply – Some properties may have outstanding liens, court costs, or title clearing fees.

• Title Insurance May Require Legal Work – A quiet title action may be necessary before obtaining title insurance.

• Property Responsibilities Begin – Once the redemption period ends, buyers must maintain the property and pay future taxes.

• Ownership Transfer Must Be Filed – Buyers must complete county paperwork to finalize the transfer.

• Review Local Regulations – Some properties may have building restrictions or code violations.

• Plan for Future Use – Buyers should consider repair costs, development opportunities, or resale plans.

• Ensure Utility Access – Some properties may require additional work to connect to water, electricity, or sewage systems.

• Understand Future Tax Obligations – Buyers must pay property taxes going forward to keep ownership.

Important Things to Know Before Bidding

Before placing a bid, make sure you’re fully aware of the risks and responsibilities that come with purchasing a tax-delinquent property.

1. All Sales Are Final – Refunds are not available once a bid is placed.
2. Properties Sell ‘As-Is’ – The county does not guarantee property condition or title status.
3. Check for Liens – Some properties may have additional debts beyond delinquent taxes.
4. Extra Fees May Apply – Buyers may have to pay court costs, legal fees, and title clearing expenses.
5. Research Is Essential – Confirm property ownership, condition, and any legal concerns before bidding.
6. Winning a Property Does Not Mean Immediate Ownership – The redemption period must expire before full control is granted.
7. Legal Advice Is Recommended – A real estate attorney can help with title issues and legal requirements.
8. Future Tax Payments Are Required – Buyers must pay property taxes going forward to retain ownership.
9. Check Neighborhood Factors – Research property values, local infrastructure, and restrictions before bidding.
10. Be Prepared for Additional Costs – Some properties may require repairs, legal fees, or back utility payments.
11. Secure Insurance and Permits – Buyers should obtain insurance and necessary permits before making improvements.
12. Understand Long-Term Plans – Whether holding, flipping, or renting, buyers should have a clear investment strategy.

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! 

Get Ready for the Next Auction!

Stay ahead of the competition! Check our auction calendar for upcoming tax sales and start preparing now. Have questions? Book a call with us and explore our free resources to make informed investment decisions!

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