The Florida guide
Florida tax deed sales: how to buy, county by county
By Israel Chen · Updated
Short answer: A Florida tax deed sale is a public auction, run by a county's clerk, of property whose taxes went unpaid. 44 counties sell online and 19 in person. The winner posts 5% of the bid or $200, whichever is greater, and pays in full within 24 hours.
Five things to do before your first bid
- Pick one county and learn its rules. The finder covers all 67.
- Register and fund early. Volusia wants ACH deposits 4 full working days ahead.
- Read the tax deed file. A tax deed doesn't guarantee clear title.
- Check the land. A very low county value can mean a parcel isn't a normal building lot.
- Set your maximum first. Count documentary stamps, recording and title costs.
How the process runs
Taxes go unpaid, the Tax Collector sells a certificate, and after two years the holder can apply for a deed. The clerk advertises for four weeks, then sells to the highest bidder. Read every step, or see how a deed differs from a lien.
After the sale
- Surplus funds: who gets paid, and the 120-day deadline.
- Lands available for taxes: buying unsold parcels without an auction.
Questions
Where are Florida tax deed sales held?
44 counties sell online and 19 in person, as of November 6, 2026. Gadsden, Glades, Holmes and Lafayette don't say on any page we could read, so call the clerk.
Who runs a Florida tax deed sale?
The Clerk of the Circuit Court in nearly every county. Orange County's sales are run by the Comptroller, and Broward's through its Records, Taxes and Treasury division.
What deposit do I need?
State law sets a nonrefundable deposit of 5% of the bid or $200, whichever is greater. Online counties usually need it funded in your bidder account before the sale.
When is full payment due?
Within 24 hours, excluding weekends and legal holidays. If you don't pay, the clerk cancels the bids and re-advertises the sale.
Can anyone bid?
Yes. Anyone may bid after registering and funding a deposit where the county requires it. The certificate holder can bid too.