Georgia Tax Sales Question

[Ramsey Howard]

Can someone with knowledge of how the laws governing Delinquent tax sales in Georgia explain to me how it works. I have been to several tax sales at the court house. I understand how the starting bid is for the back taxes owed on the property, what i am unclear about is if it sells for more than that amount, where and to whom does the extra amount go to? Does the county get it, property owner, bank, ect?? Also, I understand if a tax bill is later paid by the property owner within 12 months and the notice period they must pay the original amount and a 20% penalty and any fees incured by the person who bought this tax lien. Also, i understand that by purchasing the tax lien on one of these properties, regardless of any other liens (bank, ect) you own the property. Any information provided will be awesome, sorry or the long post....;)