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

Skamania 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 happen through public auctions, 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 Skamania County Treasurer’s Office manages tax foreclosure auctions. The process begins when the Treasurer files a Certificate of Delinquency, listing properties with unpaid taxes. Before the auction, the county:

• Publishes legal notices in a designated newspaper.

• Notifies property owners and lienholders about the foreclosure.

• Allows property owners to pay overdue taxes to avoid foreclosure.

If the owner does not pay by the deadline, the property goes to auction. Skamania County conducts auctions in person, requiring buyers to attend and register beforehand.

Auction Rules and Requirements:

• Public Notice – The county provides auction details in advance.

• Final Redemption Deadline – Property owners can stop the foreclosure by paying before the auction.

• Auction Registration – Buyers must sign up and get a numbered bidder card.

• Minimum Bids – The opening bid includes unpaid taxes, interest, and county fees.

• Highest Bid Wins – The highest bidder secures the property.

How to Prepare for the Auction

Skamania County sells all properties as-is, so buyers must research before bidding.

Key Steps Before Bidding:

1. Check the property list – Review available parcels, legal descriptions, and bid amounts.
2. Confirm the property location – Use maps and public records to verify access and boundaries.
3. Investigate liens or claims – Some properties may have outstanding debts that buyers must resolve.
4. Understand land use rules – Zoning restrictions may limit development or usage.
5. Determine occupancy status – If occupied, buyers must follow legal eviction procedures.
6. Inspect legally – Buyers must get permission from the owner to visit the property.
7. Check for environmental concerns – Some areas have land-use restrictions due to conservation laws.
8. Review utility access – Some properties lack water, power, or road access.

Bidding Process

The auction follows a public oral bidding system. Each property starts with a minimum bid that covers unpaid taxes, interest, and county fees.

How the Bidding Works:

1. Register before the auction – Sign up at the event and get a bidder card.
2. Minimum bid announcement – The auctioneer starts bidding at the base price.
3. Live bidding – Bidders raise their cards to place offers.
4. Highest bid wins – The property goes to the highest bidder.
5. Immediate payment required – The winning bidder must pay in full the same day.
6. Failure to pay – If the buyer does not complete payment, the county re-lists the property.

Payment and Deadlines

Winning bidders must pay in full by the county’s deadline. The county only accepts cash, cashier’s checks, and money orders. Personal checks and credit cards are not allowed.

Important Payment Rules:

• Pay on time – Late payments result in losing the property and deposit.

• Confirm payment processing – The Treasurer’s Office must verify the transaction before finalizing the sale.

• Cover additional costs – Expect recording fees and legal expenses.

• Follow county payment instructions – The Treasurer’s Office provides exact steps for completing the purchase.

• No refund policy – Winning bids are final, and the county does not issue refunds.

Receiving the Deed

After the county receives full payment, the Treasurer’s Office issues a Treasurer’s Deed to the buyer. This process can take up to 30 days. The deed transfers ownership, but it does not guarantee a clear title.

Next Steps After Receiving the Deed:

1. Record the deed – File it with the Skamania County Auditor’s Office to make ownership official.
2. Check for title issues – Some properties may have liens or legal claims that require legal action.
3. Confirm property boundaries – Hire a surveyor if needed to verify lot lines.
4. Complete all legal paperwork – Ensure all required documents are filed correctly.
5. Understand ownership rights – Some properties may have restrictions affecting immediate use.

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 vandalism.

• Handle occupancy issues legally – If someone lives there, follow eviction laws.

• Assess the property condition – Some properties may need repairs or cleanup.

• Plan for future use – Decide whether to develop, rent, or sell the property.

• Stay current on taxes – Pay property taxes on time to avoid another foreclosure.

• Follow local regulations – Some properties may require permits for improvements.

• Check for legal restrictions – Some parcels have conservation easements or historical protections.

• Understand county regulations – Certain properties may have road access or maintenance responsibilities.

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!

Seize the moment! Stay updated with our auction calendar, and never miss a tax sale. If you’re unsure where to start, book a call now for expert guidance. Our free resources will help you make informed decisions!

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