Alabama Tax Deed question

[Kristina Knowles]

This is one I have not seen before and wondering if someone in this community could provide some guidance. 

An investment company is holding a Tax Deed on a property, but have not paid the taxes in the last three years. If I acquire the property from the state how do I get the tax sale deed?  Will I owe anything to the previous investor currently holding the tax deed?  Thanks!

[Denise Evans]

@Kristina Knowles, @Robert Sims, you will not have to pay the prior investor anything. They will have redemption rights, just like any other former owner.  If it has been fewer than 3 years since the auction, you will receive a tax certificate from the state. After the 3-year anniversary from the most recent tax auction, you may surrender your certificate to the probate judge of the county where the property is located, pay a $5 fee, and receive a tax deed. If it has already been more than 3 years since the most recent tax auction, you will receive a tax deed from the state.