How to Buy Tax Deed Properties in Florida – Step by Step

Step 1: Find Upcoming Auctions

• Bookmark your target counties' tax deed sale pages.
• Check weekly; new sales are added continuously.
• Note the auction date, parcel ID, and opening bid.

Step 2: Research Properties Before the Auction

For each promising property:

• Pull the property appraiser record (assessed value, lot size, zoning, exemptions).
• Run a quick title search using the county clerk's official records website (look for mortgages, judgments, liens).
• Check for homestead exemption – if it exists, the opening bid includes one-half of assessed value, which can be a bargain if the value is high.
• Verify physical access (Google Maps, county GIS).
• Check for flood zone (FEMA maps).

Step 3: Understand the Opening Bid

The opening bid is the minimum amount required to start bidding. It includes:

• Delinquent taxes
• Interest
• Tax certificate costs
• Fees paid by the certificate holder
• (If homestead) one-half of assessed value

Step 4: Register and Bid

• Most online auctions require registration before the sale. You may need to upload ID and provide a deposit (often via credit card or wire).
• Set your maximum bid based on your after-repair value (ARV) minus all costs.
• Bid online at the scheduled time. Auctions are typically open for a set period (e.g., 24 hours) with extended bidding if a bid is placed near the end.

Step 5: If You Win

• You'll receive a notice with the final bid amount and payment instructions.
• Payment is usually due within 24-48 hours (by wire or certified funds).
• The clerk will issue a Certificate of Title or Tax Deed after the redemption period ends (owners have a limited time to redeem after sale, but in Florida, redemption ends when the bid is fully paid).

Step 6: Post-Auction

• Record the deed (the clerk usually handles this).
• Take possession (if occupied, you may need to evict – follow Florida law).
• Remove the previous owner's homestead exemption with the property appraiser.