What is tax deed?
A deed issued when the county sells a property for unpaid tax (tax-deed states such as Florida and Texas).
Why it matters to an investor
A tax deed is what a buyer gets when the county sells a property for unpaid tax. In tax-deed states the house itself is sold, usually at auction.
How investors use it
- Check the minimum bid and any liens that survive.
- Look at the redemption period after the sale.
- Do a title search; a tax deed may not clear every claim.
Questions
Does a tax deed give clean title?
Often close, but not always. A title company can tell you what remains.
How is it different from a tax lien?
A tax lien certificate sells the debt. A tax deed sells the house.
How we make these guides
Written by the LeadCounty editorial and data team from official county, court and state sources and our own weekly counts. We name the office behind every number, say what we cannot see, and fix mistakes when you tell us. See our editorial standards and methodology. General information, not legal or financial advice. Refreshed weekly.
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