Ohio Tax Sales Investing: Liens & Deeds Guide for 2026
Everything you need to know about buying tax deed properties in Ohio—the auction process, redemption rules, title clearing, and due diligence requirements.
How Ohio Tax Deed Sales Work
Ohio Tax Sale Process Flow
Ohio Redemption Rules
Redemption Period
For tax liens, the owner has 1 year to redeem. For properties sold at an auditor's sale (tax deed), there is no right of redemption.
Owner pays the county auditor the certificate amount plus interest and costs.
Penalty Rate
Lien interest rate (up to 18%) plus costs.
Interest/penalty the owner must pay to redeem
Homestead Properties
No major difference in redemption process for homestead.
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 Ohio Tax Deed Purchase
Recommended Approach
A quiet title action (ORC 5303.01) is required to get insurable title after obtaining a deed from either a lien foreclosure or an auditor's sale.
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.
Ohio Tax Deed Due Diligence Checklist
Risks & Considerations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ohio a tax lien or tax deed state?
Ohio is a hybrid state. Counties can choose to sell tax lien certificates to investors. If the liens aren't redeemed, the investor can foreclose. Counties can also foreclose on properties themselves and sell them directly at an "auditor's sale," which is a tax deed sale with no redemption.
What is an Ohio Auditor's Sale?
An auditor's sale is when the county sells properties directly to the public after foreclosing on them. The winning bidder gets an Auditor's Deed, and there is no post-sale redemption period. These are typically lower-value properties.
Do I need a quiet title after an Ohio tax sale?
Yes. Regardless of whether you get a deed from a tax lien foreclosure or an auditor's sale, you will need to file a quiet title action to get a marketable and insurable title from a title company.
Track Your Ohio 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.