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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the county guarantee the property?
No, Be an informed bidder - all properties are sold as-is.

Prospective purchasers are urged to examine the title, location, and desirability of the properties available to their own satisfaction prior to the sale. The county makes no guarantee, expressed or implied, relative to the title, location, or condition of the properties for sale.

In addition, the county assumes no responsibility, expressed or implied, that the properties are in compliance with zoning ordinances, mining and reclamation regulations, conform to building codes and permits, and/or any other applicable regulations or permits.

No government entity is liable for damages sustained to property purchased at public auction, including from the time of the sale until the recordation of the tax deed to the purchaser.

All sales are final.

Show All Answers

1. What is tax-defaulted property with Notice of Power to Sell?
2. Why does the county sell tax-defaulted property?
3. What laws govern the sale of tax-defaulted property in California?
4. Is a tax sale publicly advertised?
5. Does the county guarantee the property?
6. Are contaminated / possible contaminated properties identified?
7. When does the right to redeem a tax-defaulted property cease?
8. How is the minimum bid on a tax sale property determined?
9. Can I obtain title to the property by paying the delinquent taxes?
10. Do liens or encumbrances on a tax-defaulted property transfer to the new owner after purchase of the property at a tax sale?
11. How do I find or see a parcel of property I’d like to bid on at the tax sale?
12. How can I obtain Assessor’s plat maps?
13. How can I determine what use I can make of a tax sale property before I purchase it?
14. How can I find out if a particular property has been withdrawn from the sale?
15. How can I register as a bidder?
16. How does the bidding process work?
17. What happens if I am the successful bidder but decide that I don’t want the property after all?
18. How can a successful bidder pay for a property at tax sale?
19. What kind of title do I get?
20. How will title in the deed to the purchaser be vested?
21. How soon can I take possession of a property after purchase at the tax sale?
22. What happens to property that does not sell at the tax sale?
23. How can I get more information?