TAX deed properties and HOA's in California & Washington

[Sarah Becker]

I have been searching for a definitive answer regarding the clearing of past due HOA liens and fees for tax deed/sale properties in California and Washington state.

My question is: Are the HOA dues and leins cleared like a mortgages in a tax deed scenario?

Has anyone bought a tax deed property in an HOA that had back dues or liens? Any insights or specific experiences are greatly appreciated.

[Rick H.]

As Jay says, it's state specific. 

In CA, real property sold at tax sale are super priority and wipe off most all other secured claims, including trust deeds, judgments and HOA liens, with the only exception being claims to the Federal government and a few odd local government liens that you may run into.

It sounds like you've had some success buying in past. Most other successful buyers develop an expertise in a certain state and focus their energies accordingly. 

There's also darn good money working the surplus funds side and, of course, deceased owners. 

I'm trying to remember when I last drove thru or flew near Brown City. Pretty area.