How Prince William County Conducts Tax Sales: A Simple Guide

Introduction

Prince William County, Virginia, holds tax sales to recover unpaid real estate taxes by auctioning off properties. These auctions give buyers a chance to purchase properties, often at lower prices than traditional real estate sales. Unlike a fixed auction schedule, the county updates its auction dates regularly.

To stay informed, always check the Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

Understanding the Process

Prince William County follows a structured process to conduct tax sales:

1. Identifying Properties – The county selects properties with unpaid taxes.
2. Legal Review – A legal team from Taxing Authority Consulting Services (TACS) prepares each property for auction.
3. Auction Scheduling – The county schedules a simulcast auction that allows both in-person and online participation.
4. Bidding Begins – Buyers place bids until the highest bidder wins.

How to Register and Bid

Registering for the Auction

• Sign up online before the auction.
• Provide basic personal information and proof of funds on the auction website.
• Wait for approval before you can place bids.

Bidding in the Auction

• Participate in person or online at the designated location.
• Monitor real-time bidding increments and adjust your bid as needed.
• The highest bid wins, pending court approval.

Key Auction Details

Winning bidders must complete payments on time to finalize their purchase.

• Deposit Requirement – Pay 25% of the winning bid or $1,000 (whichever is higher) immediately after winning.
• Buyer’s Premium – Pay an additional 10% of your bid (minimum of $150).
• Final Payment – Complete the remaining balance within 15 days after court confirmation.

Property Condition and Due Diligence

Before bidding, research the property thoroughly.

Inspect the Property

• All properties sell “as-is, where-is, and if-is.”
• Arrange your own inspection when possible.
• Consider hiring a title search service to check for liens or legal issues.

Research the Property

• Use county records and online resources to review property details.
• Check ownership history, unpaid taxes, and zoning restrictions.
• Make sure the property aligns with your investment goals.

Useful Links

• Learn How to Profit from Virginia Real Estate Auctions 
• Let’s talk about Tax Deeds and how you can profit from them!
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 

Prince William County runs a clear and structured tax sale process that allows buyers to acquire properties through a simulcast auction. Participants must register online, follow deposit requirements, and complete full payment after court approval. Since tax sale properties come with no guarantees, conducting thorough research before bidding is essential.

Check the Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions to stay updated on upcoming opportunities.

Call to Action

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to invest in a tax-sale property. Check the auction calendar today and explore available listings. Need guidance? Book a call with an expert or browse our free resources for valuable investment tips

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