Unicoi County, TN Tax Sales: Your Guide to Buying Tax-Delinquent Properties

Looking to invest in tax-delinquent properties in Unicoi County, Tennessee? This area offers in-person tax sales where investors can buy properties with unpaid taxes. These auctions can be a good way to purchase property at a lower price, but it’s important to understand how the process works.

Here’s a full guide in plain English.

How Tax Sales Work in Unicoi County

Unicoi County holds in-person tax deed sales at the county courthouse. When a property owner doesn’t pay their taxes, the county can auction the property to recover the money owed.

If you win the bid, you may be able to own the property after the redemption period ends.

Important Tax Sale Details for Unicoi County

Detail	Description
Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Auction Format	In-person only (no online bidding)
Auction Location	Sessions Courtroom, 2nd Floor, 100 N. Main Avenue, Erwin, TN 37650
Typical Sale Time	Held once a year, often in the fall around 11:00 AM ET
Registration	On-site only (opens at 10:00 AM ET on auction day)
Deposit Required	May be required – confirm with the Clerk & Master
Payment Methods	Cashier’s check, money order (no personal checks)
Full Payment Deadline	Usually due the same day
Redemption Period	1 year from the date of sale
Court Approval	Sale must be approved by the Chancery Court
Property Listings	Posted on the Clerk & Master’s page and in the Erwin Record newspaper

Step-by-Step: How to Join the Auction

1. Review Listings Early
   Check the Unicoi County Clerk & Master’s website and local newspapers for upcoming sales. Listings are posted at least 30 days before each auction.
2. Do Your Research
   Look into tax records, drive by the properties, and check for liens or legal issues. Visit the Property Assessor’s site for more details.
3. Go to the Courthouse
   Auctions are held at the courthouse. Show up early and be ready to register.
4. Register to Bid
   You must register on the same day before the auction starts. Bring a valid photo ID.
5. Place Your Bid
   Bidding starts at the amount owed in taxes and fees. The highest bidder wins, but the sale needs court approval.
6. Pay Immediately
   You’ll need to pay in full right after the sale. No payment means you lose the property.
7. Wait for the Redemption Period
   The original owner has one year to reclaim the property by paying everything owed. If that happens, you’ll get your money back—but no interest.
8. Get the Tax Deed
   If the property isn’t redeemed, the court issues you a tax deed. You may need to file a quiet title action to secure full ownership.

What Happens After You Win?

• Make full payment on time — Missing the deadline voids your win.
• Wait for court approval — The sale is not final until the court approves it.
• One-year redemption period begins — The previous owner has up to a year to pay and take back the property.
• Liens may still exist — You could be responsible for other debts tied to the property.
• Quiet title action may be needed — To clear ownership and get title insurance.
• You can’t evict or make changes — Not until the redemption period ends.

Things to Watch Out For

• All sales are final — No refunds after the sale.
• Properties are sold as-is — No inspections are allowed before the auction.
• You must do your research — Some properties have hidden liens or legal issues.
• Title might not be clear — A quiet title action could be needed.
• Payment is due right away — You’ll lose your claim if you can’t pay in full.

Key Contacts and Links

Office	Contact
Unicoi County Clerk & Master	unicoichancery@gmail.com (423) 743-6224
Official Website	Unicoi County Government
Tax Sale Info	Clerk & Master Tax Sale Page
Property Listings and Court Info	Unicoi County Clerk & Master
County Directory	Unicoi County Homepage

Pro Tips Before You Bid

• Bring certified payment — Cashier’s check or money order only.
• Visit the property from the outside — No walk-throughs allowed.
• Check for other liens — Use the Register of Deeds or title search tools.
• Talk to a lawyer — Especially if you’re unsure about title issues.
• Plan for quiet title action — This might be needed to resell or refinance.

FAQs: Unicoi County Tax Sales

Can I bid online?
No, all bidding is in-person only.

Is there a redemption period?
Yes, it’s one year from the date of the sale.

Do I get my money back if the owner redeems the property?
Yes, you’ll get a refund, but you won’t earn any interest on it.

Are the properties sold with clean titles?
Not always. You may need to file a quiet title action.

Can out-of-state buyers participate?
Yes, anyone can bid as long as they register in person on auction day.

Useful Links

• Unicoi County Clerk & Master’s Tax Sale Page
• Unicoi County Homepage
• Property Assessor’s Office
• 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! 

Why Consider Unicoi County for Tax Deed Investing?

Unicoi County is located in northeast Tennessee and offers lower property costs than many other parts of the state. The area has regular annual auctions, beautiful mountain scenery, and a small-town feel. It’s ideal for new investors or anyone looking for quiet real estate opportunities.

Prepare for the Next Auction

Smart investors plan ahead! Review our auction calendar and prepare for the next sale. Have questions? Book a call now and explore free resources to boost your strategy.

 

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