Tax Delinquent Properties

[Dan Buchta]

Hi hopefully this is the right forum for this post.

I just recently received a list of tax delinquent properties in my county and I had some questions about how someone uses the info. 

First and foremost I'm new to REI and have not done my first deal yet. Is this a viable strategy for someone to get started with or am I getting way in over my head as a first timer?

Second, my county says they update the list weekly but I'm confused as to why they do it. If taxes are due only once a year why will they update weekly? Should I bother checking with these updates or can I assume the data I have will last me until next tax season?

Lastly, does have anyone have any suggestions/tips on how to use this data? Most of what I read online is to use direct mail marketing. What indicators would you look for to find the hottest leads?

I would love to hear of any success stories of someone who's done this. I would be grateful for any info at all on the subject! 

[Ned Carey]

@Dan Buchta I will expand on John's reply. You can use the list to buy tax liens or tax deeds if this is the list for the up coming auctions.

Otherwise direct marketing the list as since they haven't paid their taxes they are potentially in financial distress or are otherwise motivated sellers. The easiest way is direct mail. You can also call or even knock or put a flyer on the door. The more intrusive your method to reach them the more flack you will get in return. This is to be expected.