Shieff Tax Sale Assignment - Philadelphia

[Michael Lenahan]

Hi All,

I am hoping to get you advice on a property that I'm thinking of buying.

This property is being sold as shieff tax sale assignment. Good deal on paper, but I'm worried about Right of Redemption.

This is what I know about the property:

Taxes owed: $3,366

I've walked through the property and it has been cleaned out and it is vacant.

There are recent L&I violations for not having a vacant license.

My questions:

Does Right of Redemption apply in this case since the property has been cleaned out and is vacant?

Is there anyway I can get title insurance or is there a way to minimize the risk?

What is the game when investing in shieff tax sale assignment properties?

[Michael Campbell]

Hi @Michael Lenahan

Per the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office website: 

http://www.officeofphiladelphiasheriff.com/en/real...

"The right of Redemption is only applicable if the property scheduled for Tax Sale is determined to be owner occupied 90 days prior to the sale. If the property is unoccupied or abandoned, there is no Right of Redemption."

However, you may still have trouble getting title insurance.  I'd recommend calling around to a few title companies to get their opinion.