There are many fees and costs you’ll encounter as a homeowner. From closing costs that are due when first purchasing your home to your mortgage payment and property taxes, keeping up with these expenses is essential. But if you’re a homeowner that didn’t pay your property taxes, you’re at risk of losing your home in a tax sale. Keep reading to learn more about property tax liens and what to do if you have lost your property in this type of sale.
If you fail to pay your property taxes or other municipal fees associated with your property like sewage or water bills, any past-due amount that you owe can become a lien on your home. Each state has its own laws regarding property tax liens but generally, if you have a lien on your home, the local government can sell the property to collect any monies owed.
Tax sales are a serious matter but there may be a few different options available to you to help save your home. It is possible to reclaim your home following a tax deed sale by setting aside the sale or redeeming it. Many jurisdictions offer a right of redemption that is available after the tax sale. TO redeem your property, you are required to reimburse the total amount paid at the sale, plus any interest to the purchaser. This must be done within a certain time frame, called the “redemption period,” which typically lasts from 1 to 3 years. Additionally, you may be able to redeem the property before the start of a sale.
If you are unable to redeem the property, you may be able to invalidate or set aside the tax sale. This can be accomplished in a few ways, including:
If you are in a situation where a sale is imminent, or you’re exploring your legal options following a tax lien sale, you should consider working with an experienced attorney. Seeking legal counsel from a knowledgeable foreclosure attorney, tax attorney or real estate attorney may be able to stop or reverse a tax lien sale and help you to maintain ownership of your home.
With a combined 25+ years in the business and belonging to one of the most experienced Brokerage Firms in the Greater Denver Area, the Weld Real Estate Group will help you navigate the Real Estate waters in a professional manner. Whether you are a first time home buyer, an experienced investor in the commercial arena or relocating to or from Colorado, we can make your transaction as seamless as possible as well as enjoyable. Our team of agents, lenders, title companies and trained office staff insure you will feel confident about your path to selling and buying property. We also have staff to help you determine whether you want to do a short term rental of your property. We currently service the greater Denver Metro area, Boulder, Ft Collins, Colorado Springs, Summit, Park, Grand and Lake Counties. We look forward to serving you!