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

Tax sales in Shelby County, Tennessee, allow the county to recover unpaid property taxes by auctioning off tax-delinquent properties. Buyers can find great deals, but understanding the process is crucial before jumping in.

How Shelby County Tax Sales Work

Shelby County conducts tax sales online through ZeusAuction.com. These auctions give bidders a chance to acquire properties at competitive prices. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

Key Steps in the Tax Sale Process

1. Property Listings – About 30 days before the auction, the county publishes a list of available properties on ZeusAuction.com and in local newspapers.
2. Open Bidding – Registered bidders place bids online, and the system notifies them if they are outbid.
3. Winning Bids – The highest bidder wins unless the court rejects the sale.
4. Payment Deadline – The full payment is due by the next business day using an approved method.
5. Court Confirmation – The Chancery Court reviews and confirms each sale, usually within 30 to 45 days.
6. Redemption Period – Previous owners have limited time to pay off their debts and reclaim the property.
7. Receiving the Tax Deed – If no redemption occurs, the buyer officially gets the property.

How to Participate in Shelby County Tax Sales

1. Register on ZeusAuction.com

• Create an account.

• Provide required details, including a valid payment method.

2. Research the Properties

• Review the property listings.

• Check tax records and zoning laws.

• If possible, visit the area to inspect the property’s condition.

3. Understand Bidding Rules

• Bidding is only allowed online through ZeusAuction.com.

1. The highest bid wins, but the court must approve the sale.

4. Bid Smartly

• Auctions use an open-bid system, meaning others can outbid you.

• Have a maximum bid in mind and be ready to adjust.

5. Pay Promptly

1. If you win, you must submit full payment by the next business day.

6. Wait for Court Confirmation

• The Chancery Court reviews sales within 30–45 days.

7. Monitor the Redemption Period

• Property owners can still reclaim the property if they pay off all owed taxes and fees.

8. Receive the Tax Deed

• If the redemption period passes without payment, you officially own the property.

Understanding Redemption Rights

Can Previous Owners Take the Property Back?

Yes. The original property owners can reclaim their property if they pay all delinquent taxes, interest, and fees within the redemption period.

How Long is the Redemption Period?

The timeframe depends on how long the property has been tax-delinquent. Some properties may have a one-year redemption period, while others may have a shorter timeframe.

When Can Buyers Take Possession?

Buyers must wait until the redemption period expires before taking full ownership.

Important Things to Know Before Bidding

1. Properties Sell ‘As-Is’

• Shelby County does not guarantee the condition of the property.

• You must do your own due diligence.

2. Legal Research is Crucial

• Check for liens, zoning restrictions, and occupancy status before bidding.

3. Additional Costs May Apply

• Buyers may have to pay court costs or other fees beyond the winning bid.

4. Eviction Might Be Necessary

• If someone is living on the property, you might need legal action to remove them.

5. Title Insurance Can Be Complicated

• Many tax-sale properties require a quiet title action before obtaining clear ownership.

Helpful 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! 

Don’t Miss Your Opportunity

Check the auction calendar and start preparing today. Need expert guidance? Book a call with us for assistance. We also offer free resources to help you make informed investment decisions.

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