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

Unicoi County, Tennessee, auctions off tax-delinquent properties to recover unpaid property taxes. If you’re interested in bidding, you need to understand how the process works. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

 

How Unicoi County Tax Sales Work

Unicoi County holds in-person tax auctions at the county courthouse. Buyers can bid on properties with overdue taxes and purchase them for the amount owed or more.

Key Auction Details

1. In-Person Auctions Only – All tax sales take place at the Unicoi 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 taxes, interest, and court costs.
4. Live Bidding – The highest bidder wins, but the court must approve the sale.
5. Payment Deadline – Winning bidders must pay in full within the county’s required timeframe.

How to Participate in Unicoi County Tax Sales

1. Review Property Listings

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

2. Inspect Properties

• Drive by the properties to check their location and condition.
• Use tax maps to confirm property details.
• The county does not allow interior inspections before the sale.

3. Attend the Auction in Person

• Arrive at the Unicoi 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.
• The county may require a deposit 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. 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 goes back 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 become responsible for any additional debts tied to the property.

4. Understand Legal Requirements

• Some properties require a quiet title action to clear 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 keep the property in good condition.

Things to Know Before Bidding

1. All Sales Are Final

• Unicoi County does not offer refunds after a winning bid.

2. Properties Sell ‘As-Is’

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

3. Some Properties Have Liens

• Buyers should research title records before bidding.

4. Additional Fees May Apply

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

5. Research Thoroughly

• Verify ownership records, property conditions, and legal obligations before bidding.

6. Winning a Property Doesn’t Mean Immediate Ownership

• The redemption period must pass before buyers gain full control.

7. Seek Legal Advice

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

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

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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