How Adams County, Washington, Conducts Tax Sales – A Buyer’s Guide

Adams County, Washington, holds tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. If property owners fail to pay taxes for three years, the county starts foreclosure proceedings and auctions off the property. These sales take place through a public auction, giving buyers a chance to purchase properties at competitive prices. To stay updated, check the Auction Calendar for scheduled sales.

How the Auction Works

The Adams County Treasurer’s Office oversees tax foreclosure auctions according to legal requirements. The process begins when the county files a Certificate of Delinquency with the Adams County Superior Court. Property owners receive official notices and have until the day before the auction to pay overdue taxes and keep their property. The auction is open to the public, and the county provides a list of available properties, including:

• Parcel numbers

• Property descriptions

• Minimum bid amounts

Auction Rules and Requirements:

• Registration and Deposits – Buyers must register before the auction. Some sales require a refundable deposit.

• Bidding Process – The auction is competitive, and bidders increase their offers until the highest bid wins.

• Minimum Bids – The starting bid includes delinquent taxes, interest, penalties, and foreclosure costs.

• Redemption Rights – Owners can reclaim their property if they pay off their debts before the auction.

How to Prepare for the Auction

Buyers must research properties before bidding. All sales are as-is, meaning buyers accept responsibility for any issues.

Key Steps Before Bidding:

1. Check the property list – Review parcel numbers, legal descriptions, and bid amounts.
2. Verify the property location – Use maps and county records to confirm access and boundaries.
3. Investigate liens or claims – Some properties have legal or financial obligations that don’t disappear after purchase.
4. Confirm occupancy rules – If the property is occupied, the new owner must handle eviction legally.
5. Assess development potential – Make sure the land fits your investment goals.
6. Review county regulations – Understand auction rules before bidding.
7. Inspect properties legally – You must have permission from the current owner to enter before purchasing.

Bidding and Payment Requirements

Bidders must register before the auction. The bidding follows a competitive format, with the starting bid covering unpaid taxes, interest, and county fees.

How the Bidding Works:

• Starting bids – The auction begins at the amount owed to the county.

• Placing bids – Buyers must outbid others to secure a property.

• Winning bids – The highest bidder must complete the payment.

• Payment deadline – Full payment is due the same day or the next business day.

• Accepted payment methods – The county only accepts cash, cashier’s checks, or certified funds. No personal checks or credit cards.

Forfeiting a purchase – If a buyer misses the payment deadline, they lose their deposit, and the property goes back to auction. After payment, the Adams County Treasurer’s Office issues a Treasurer’s Deed to the buyer. This process can take up to 30 days. The deed transfers ownership but does not guarantee a clear title.

What Buyers Need to Do Next:

1. Record the deed at the Adams County Auditor’s Office.
2. Check for title issues – Some properties may still have liens or legal claims.
3. Verify property boundaries – A surveyor can confirm lot lines.
4. Complete legal paperwork – Make sure all documents are in order for a smooth property transfer.

What to Do After Winning a Property

New owners take full responsibility for the property immediately.

Next Steps for New Owners:

• Secure the property – Prevent trespassing or damage.

• Handle occupancy issues – If people still live there, follow legal eviction procedures.

• Assess property condition – Some properties may need cleaning, repairs, or removal of abandoned structures.

• Decide on future use – Owners must choose whether to develop, rent, or sell.

• Pay future taxes – Staying current on taxes prevents foreclosure in the future.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• Investing in Washington Tax Sales
• 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! 

Don’t Miss the Next Tax Sale!

Stay ahead of the game! Explore our auction calendar to find upcoming tax sales and secure your next investment. Need expert guidance? Book a call now and get the insights you need to make smart, confident bids. Plus, access our free resources for essential investment tips!

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