Behind on property taxes? Sell before a tax sale
Unpaid property taxes add up fast with penalties and interest, and eventually the county can sell the tax debt or the house. A fast cash sale pays off what you owe and puts the rest of your equity in your pocket.
- Back taxes paid at closing
- Keep your equity
- We pay all closing costs
Your options when taxes are past due
The earlier you act, the more options you have. Here’s how they compare.
Pay the balance
The best option if you can. Penalties and interest keep growing the longer it waits.
Set up a payment plan
Many counties offer installment plans. Call your county treasurer to ask what’s available.
Wait it out
Risky. Depending on your state, the county can sell a tax lien or tax deed, adding fees and, in some cases, putting your ownership at risk.
Sell to us as-is
We pay off the back taxes, penalties and interest from the sale at closing, and you keep the remaining equity. Get an offer →
How selling with back taxes works
- Tell us about the house. And roughly how much is owed, if you know. We can look up the tax status too.
- Get a cash offer within 24 hours. No repairs, no fees, and we pay all closing costs.
- We pay the county at closing. The title company pays the back taxes, penalties and any liens from the sale.
- You get the rest. The remaining equity is yours, on the closing date you pick.
Good to know
- Tax sale rules are different in every state. Some states sell tax liens, others sell the property itself.
- Many states give owners a redemption period after a tax sale, but the cost to redeem usually goes up with interest and fees.
- Your county treasurer can tell you exactly how much you owe and any upcoming sale dates.
- A sale can still close quickly even if a tax lien has been filed.
Why sellers choose BAM
- 20+ years buying houses, 500+ purchased
- Fair cash offer within 24 hours, with the math explained
- No commissions or fees, and we pay all closing costs
- Close in as little as 2–3 weeks, or on your date
Common questions
Can I sell my house if I owe back property taxes?
Yes. The back taxes, penalties and interest are paid from the sale at closing, just like a mortgage payoff.
What happens if my house goes to a tax sale?
It depends on your state. Some counties sell a lien on the property, others sell the property itself. Many states allow a redemption period, but costs rise quickly. Contact your county treasurer for your exact dates.
Can I still sell after a tax lien is filed?
Usually, yes. The lien gets paid off from the sale proceeds at closing.
How fast can we close?
In as little as 2–3 weeks, which can help if a tax sale date is coming up. Reach out as early as you can.
Do I keep any money from the sale?
Yes. After the taxes, any mortgage and other liens are paid, the remaining equity is yours.
We buy houses in 30+ markets, including Houston, Dallas, Phoenix, Atlanta, Tampa Bay, Las Vegas and Chicagoland. See all markets →
Get your cash offer
Free, no obligation, within 24 hours. No repairs, no fees.