Georgia Tax Deed Investing: Complete Guide for 2026
Everything you need to know about buying tax deed properties in Georgia—the auction process, redemption rules, title clearing, and due diligence requirements.
How Georgia Tax Deed Sales Work
Georgia Tax Sale Process Flow
Georgia Redemption Rules
Redemption Period
12 months from tax sale date
Owner pays purchaser's bid plus 20% premium to Tax Commissioner
Penalty Rate
20% premium on purchase price
Interest/penalty the owner must pay to redeem
Homestead Properties
Same 12-month period for all property types
Important: During the redemption period, you typically cannot take possession, make improvements, or rent out the property. The former owner retains possession rights until redemption expires.
Title Clearing After Georgia Tax Deed Purchase
Recommended Approach
File barment of right of redemption after 12 months, then quiet title action if needed for full insurability
Pro Tip: Factor title clearing costs into your maximum bid. A property that looks profitable at auction price may not be after adding $3,000-$5,000 for quiet title.
Georgia Tax Deed Due Diligence Checklist
Risks & Considerations
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Georgia tax sales work?
Georgia holds tax sales on the first Tuesday of the month at county courthouses. Delinquent properties are sold to the highest bidder. The buyer receives a tax deed but the former owner has 12 months to redeem by paying the purchase price plus a 20% premium.
What is barment of right of redemption in Georgia?
After the 12-month redemption period expires, the tax deed buyer must file a "barment of right of redemption" to permanently eliminate the former owner's ability to redeem. This requires proper notice to the former owner and is typically done through an attorney.
Can I get title insurance on a Georgia tax deed?
Not immediately. You must first complete the 12-month redemption period, file barment of right of redemption, and often need to complete a quiet title action before title companies will insure the property.
Where do I find Georgia tax deed auctions?
Each of Georgia's 159 counties conducts its own tax sales. Check individual county Tax Commissioner websites for schedules. Sales typically occur on the first Tuesday of the month at the county courthouse.
Track Your Georgia Tax Deed Deals
Liensuite helps tax deed investors manage the entire process—from auction research through title clearing. Track redemption deadlines, due diligence items, and never miss a critical date.