How Upshur County, Texas, Conducts Tax Sales

Upshur County, Texas, conducts tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes and provide opportunities for individuals to purchase properties through an organized process. Below is a detailed guide to understanding how tax sales work in Upshur County.

Notification and Public Notices

Upshur County ensures transparency by providing detailed public notices before each tax sale. These notices include:

The date, time, and location of the auction. Auctions are typically held at the Upshur County Courthouse. Descriptions of the properties available for sale, including their minimum bid amounts. Access to the notices through postings at the courthouse and on the county’s official website.

Participants should carefully review these notices to identify properties they want to bid on.

Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

Registration Requirements

To participate in an Upshur County tax sale, you must complete the registration process through the Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office. The steps include:

1. Submitting a separate bid submission form for each property.
2. Providing a certified cashier’s check or money order for the bid amount.
3. Ensuring all forms and payments are submitted by the auction deadline.
4. Contact the Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office with any questions about the process.

Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted, so plan your payments accordingly.

Preparing for the Auction

Preparation is key to making informed decisions during the auction. Follow these steps:

• Research the properties listed in the public notices, including their condition and market value.

• Verify if the properties have liens, encumbrances, or restrictions that could affect ownership.

• Consult with real estate or legal experts to understand potential risks and responsibilities.

• Familiarize yourself with the auction rules and procedures.

• Plan your bidding strategy to stay within your budget.

Auction Process

Upshur County follows a structured process for tax sales. Here is what you can expect:

1. Submit your written offer to the Tax Trustee for review.
2. Ensure that your offer meets or exceeds the minimum bid amount specified in the public notice.
3. Obtain approval from all taxing units if your offer is less than the total taxes owed.
4. Understand that offers rejected by any taxing unit will not proceed.

This ensures compliance with Texas Tax Code requirements.

Post-Auction Responsibilities

After successfully purchasing a property, you must complete the following steps:

1. Obtain a “Deed Without Warranty” from the Tax Trustee, which confirms ownership but does not guarantee the title.
2. Record the deed with the Upshur County Clerk’s Office to finalize the ownership transfer.
3. Address any outstanding title issues, such as liens or encumbrances, before taking possession of the property.
4. Pay future property taxes on time to avoid additional penalties or risk of resale.

You are responsible for fully understanding the property’s condition and resolving any associated liabilities.

Redemption Period

Texas law grants former property owners a redemption period during which they can reclaim their property. Key points include:

• Homestead and agricultural properties have a two-year redemption period.

• All other types of properties have a 180-day redemption period.

• The former owner must pay the purchase price, recording fees, and a redemption premium to redeem the property.

• The premium increases to 50% in the second year for homestead properties.

Additional Information

1. Properties sold at tax sales are offered “as-is,” with no guarantees about their condition or title.
2. The county follows all legal guidelines under the Texas Tax Code for conducting tax sales.
3. Buyers should consult with professionals to navigate the process smoothly.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• How to Profit from Texas’s Redeemable Deeds
• 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! 
• Learn How to maximize profits at the Texas Tax Sales

Take the Next Step

Check the latest updates on tax sales by visiting the Auction Calendar. Don’t miss the chance to participate in the next auction! Schedule a consultation with an expert to navigate the process confidently. Use our free resources to learn strategies for successful investments. Start preparing today and take steps toward achieving your property goals!

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