Florida Tax Deed Title Search: What to Check
By Israel Chen ·
Short answer: Before bidding at a Florida tax deed sale, read the tax deed file, search the county's official records, and ask the city and county about liens. Most private interests end with the deed, but some government liens can survive it.
What to check
- The tax deed file. Volusia's files are online; Martin and others offer them too.
- Government liens. Section 197.552 can keep a municipal or county lien of record alive. Ask the city about code enforcement.
- Taxes. Later unpaid taxes may still be owed. Check with the Tax Collector.
- Access. Can you reach the land by a legal road?
- Use. Check zoning, wetlands and flood maps.
Do you need a professional?
For anything but the cheapest lot, a title company's search can pay for itself. It won't make the title insurable by itself: that's what quiet title or a certification is for. Clerks don't warrant title, so this work is on you.
Questions
Do mortgages survive a Florida tax deed?
Section 197.552 says that, with limited exceptions, no right or interest survives the deed, but confirm your parcel with a Florida attorney.
Sources
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.