Birmingham, AL (Jefferson County) Tax Sale Property

[Chris Eaton]

I am a brand new investor starting out in the wholesale business.  I ran across a vacant property that I was planning to try and contact the owner for a potential wholesale deal; however, after a little research I found that the property is headed to a tax sale.  Does anyone have any experience with tax sales in Alabama?  The property appears to need a little work, but it's in a great area and the last sale date on the property was 1983 so it seems there would definitely be some room there to make some money.  If anyone has any tips or advice on this situation, please share!

[Dave Worlund]

In Alabama you are purchasing  a tax lien.  You must hold the lien for three years and pay subsequent years' taxes as well.  Then you can sue for "quiet" title. 

 In my opinion, I would contact the property owner and negotiate a wholesale deal.  They may be motivated since the taxes are delinquent.