Arizona Tax Liens, Real Auction additional fees. Buyer's Premium

[Patrick Walters]

For Arizona Tax Liens. Real Auction runs the platform for a several counties.

Do they charge a Buyer's Premium?

I see some Face Value Bids under $50, is that all I pay, or will there be hidden costs added in.

Thank you

[Jerry K.]

@Patrick Walters For Real Auction tax lien sales the amount you owe is the amount listed for the lien. All fees are included in the amount listed. Each AZ county Real Auction website has a "Tax Certificate Process" link on the left side of the main page. I copied this from the Yavapai county auction website:

Refundable and non-refundable fees

The advertised certificate amount consists of delinquent real estate taxes, accrued interest and penalties, a $10.00 certificate fee, a $10.00 taxpayer information fund fee, and an internet sale fee. Taxes, interest, penalties and fees are included in the face value of the certificate, they are interest bearing, and in Yavapai County.

PLEASE NOTE: The fees imposed on the Certificates of Purchase offered at a Tax Sale are assessed by statute, specifically, ARS 42-18118 (Certificate Fee) and 42-18116 (Processing Fee). In accordance with statutes, the processing fee is non-refundable (ARS 42-18153). The Treasurer does not make any guarantees that a purchaser will make money on a purchase and should be aware of the fact that the property owner has a right to redeem the tax lien AT ANY TIME.

If there is an asterisk (*) next to the advertised certificate amount; then a prior certificate or certificates exist on this parcel. In this case there is a $10.00 non-refundable fee per certificate included. (Contact the Treasurer’s office for the number of existing certificates.)

I have been buying AZ tax liens via the Real Auction website since 2010 and have never had to pay more than the amount listed. Note - the listed amount includes the interest through the end of February. If the owner redeems after the auction but before March 1, you get your money back with no interest. I had that happen for the first time last year.