Buying a pre-tax deed auction property. Have a question

[Jason Palmer]

Hey guys, I was hoping to get some advice on a contract I have. I've approached an owner whose home is going to tax deed auction next month. They've agreed to sale to me and signed a contract, but would like to stay and rent from me. They can't afford to pay off the taxes, but do have enough income to pay a modest rent. My question is, once I take possession and have them sign a lease, should I need to evict them at a later date, will the courts treat it differently since they used to be the homeowner? They probably wouldn't have the wherewithal to go through a lengthy and expensive legal battle - barring assistance from Legal Aid - but I still wouldn't want to risk it. I'm in Florida, by the way.

Thanks in advance for the help.  

[Claudette Attride]

Hello Jason:

This can be a great deal, however, by the time a property reaches auction for deliquent taxes, there are usually other financial matters for you be concerned about, which if you buy the property BEFORE the county tax auction will become your problem.   A County tax auction takes care of debts like mortgages and some other liens- so do your due diligence to find out what other debts are leaning on the property ( yeah, that's why they call it a lien!) and the condition of the house:  visit with them,  ask to use the restroom etc - ask for a cup of coffee to see the kitchen etc- use your eyes first, them if you need talk to a GC with a discussion of what you have seen- do your due diligence before you EVEN think of a Quit Claim deed.  On the other hand- a QC deed can also net you overages- just to let you know if you don't want the landlord thing.    Good luck

Claudette