tax deed sale. The redemption period.

[Don Chambers]

I am looking into buying my first property at a tax sale.  This is a tax deed sale in Georgia with a 1 year right of redemption.  I am an experienced investor, I'm familiar with the laws, and I have an attorney helping with the process.  My goal is to acquire properties to add to my rental portfolio.

If the property is redeemed, I will get what I paid plus 20%, plus any additional taxes paid.  I expect to pay very little, so the 20% will only be a few hundred dollars.  This means if I do anything to the property I run the risk of not recouping the cost.    I will need to neglect the property, no cutting the grass, no insurance, etc.   I am sure the city will send me letters for not cutting the grass, and maybe fine me or put another lien on the house.  What if someone is injured an sues me?


How are you handling the holding period when you buy at a tax deed sale?

Also, any gotchas I may have overlooked?