Topic: Property Taxes

Buy a Foreclosed Property

Buy property at a public tax foreclosure sale. Travis County holds monthly foreclosure sales of properties whose owners have not paid delinquent property taxes.

Important to know

Eligibility

Anyone can bid at a foreclosure sale, but Texas Property Code requires bidders to register with the Tax Office in advance and disclose whether they owe delinquent taxes on any other property in Travis County. Bidders with unpaid delinquent taxes are not eligible.

Cost

Minimum bids are set by the court and typically reflect the amount owed in delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and court costs. Full payment is required within a short window after winning; specific deadlines vary by sale.

Timeline

Foreclosure sales are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 am on the south steps of the Travis County Courthouse. Property lists are published approximately 30 days before each sale.

Process step-by-step

  1. Review the property list for the next sale

    The Tax Office publishes the property list approximately 30 days before each monthly sale. The list includes address, legal description, minimum bid, and known encumbrances. Review the list carefully; properties are sold as-is and with all liens intact unless otherwise noted.

  2. Investigate the properties you are interested in

    Drive by the property. Look up title information. Check for outstanding mortgages, mechanics liens, or other claims that will survive the foreclosure sale. The Tax Office does not verify title condition; that is the buyer's responsibility. Consider working with a title company or attorney before bidding on higher-value properties.

  3. Register to bid

    Bidders must register with the Tax Office before the sale. Registration confirms you do not owe delinquent property taxes on any other Travis County property. Bring a photo ID and proof of address. Registration is free and takes about 15 minutes; do it well before sale day to avoid delays.

  4. Attend the sale and bid

    Sales open at 10 am sharp on the first Tuesday of the month. Bidding is public and competitive. The highest bidder wins each property. Bring your registration receipt and be prepared to make a deposit immediately upon winning.

  5. Complete the purchase

    Winning bidders pay the full purchase price within the deadline specified in the sale documents, typically same-day or next-business-day. Payment is by cashier's check or wire transfer; no personal checks or credit cards. Once payment is complete, the Sheriff's Deed is executed and recorded. Ownership transfers when the deed records at the County Clerk.