The Florida Tax Deed Auction Process on Sale Day
By Israel Chen ·
Short answer: On sale day each parcel opens at the amount needed to cover taxes, interest and costs, and goes to the highest bidder. Online you bid from a funded account; in person you arrive early with your deposit. Either way, full payment is due within 24 hours.
Online sales
- Your deposit must already be in your bidder account.
- Some counties set bid steps: Highlands uses $100 or more.
- Palm Beach allows proxy bids before the sale starts.
- Marion's clerk says RealAuction emails the winner with final payment instructions.
Live sales
- Arrive early: Collier wants you 15 minutes ahead, Dixie 30.
- Bring the deposit in the form the clerk accepts.
- Be there or send someone: Jefferson says you or your representative must be physically present.
If nobody bids
The certificate holder may take the property, or it may go on the lands available list. If a winner fails to pay, the clerk cancels the bids and re-advertises the sale.
Questions
What is the opening bid at a Florida tax deed sale?
The amount needed to cover the outstanding taxes, interest and the costs of the sale.
Sources
- Section 197.542, Florida Statutes
- Highlands County Clerk: tax deed sales
- Collier County Clerk: tax deed sales
Israel Chen buys Florida tax deeds, mostly in Volusia County. MBA, second-year law student (not a lawyer) and computer scientist. About me.
Next: the Florida guide, the Volusia guide, the glossary, or work with me. Not legal, tax or investment advice.