Discovering that your home has landed on the tax sale list can feel like a nightmare. Property tax issues often sneak up on people during difficult times—maybe money got tight, paperwork slipped through the cracks, or a major life event shifted your focus. Whatever the reason, if you’re wondering what to do if your house ends up on the tax sale list, you’re not alone. The good news: you still have options, and taking action quickly can make all the difference.

Understanding the Tax Sale Process

Before you decide on your next step, it’s important to understand what a tax sale is and why your property landed there.

What is a tax sale?

A tax sale happens when property taxes go unpaid for a certain period of time. Each county has its own rules, but generally, if taxes remain delinquent, the county lists the property for auction to recover the unpaid balance.

Tax lien vs. tax deed sale

• Tax lien sale: The county sells the lien (the debt owed) to an investor. The homeowner must repay that investor—with interest—to clear the lien and keep the property.
• Tax deed sale: The county auctions the property itself. Winning bidders may receive ownership or title rights, depending on state laws.

Either way, ignoring the situation isn’t an option. Once the process begins, the clock starts ticking.

Immediate Steps to Take if Your House Is on the Tax Sale List

When you first learn that your home is on the list, time is of the essence. Here are the first things to do:

Confirm the details with the county

Double-check with your county treasurer or collector’s office to confirm exactly how much you owe, when the taxes became delinquent, and what the sale date is.

Know your timeline for redemption

Most counties give homeowners a redemption period—the window of time to pay off taxes and reclaim the property before it’s sold or fully transferred. Ask specifically: “What’s my redemption deadline?”

Communicate with the tax office

Don’t avoid calls or letters. Reaching out shows good faith, and in some cases, officials may help you understand payment options or point you toward resources.

Options to Save Your Home

Once you have the facts, you can start weighing your options.

Pay off or set up a payment plan

If you can pay the full amount, do it immediately. If not, ask whether the county allows payment plans. Many do, especially for homeowners facing temporary hardship.

Seek financial assistance or programs

Some states and counties offer property tax relief programs, particularly for seniors, veterans, or those with disabilities. Nonprofit organizations may also step in with grants or loans.

Refinance or borrow against equity

If your home has equity, refinancing or taking out a loan could provide enough funds to pay the taxes and stop the sale. However, this route requires qualifying credit and time.

Sell the house before the sale date

If catching up isn’t possible, selling before the auction is often the best option. You may be able to walk away with cash in hand rather than losing the property entirely.

Alternatives if You Cannot Keep the Property

Not everyone can or wants to keep their home. Here are alternatives that might help you move forward without the burden of a looming tax sale.

Sell directly to a local home buyer

Companies like Mastiff Home Buyers purchase properties quickly, often within days, and can cover closing costs. This lets you avoid auction, settle the tax debt, and skip the hassle of listing on the market.

Work with an investor on creative solutions

Some buyers offer flexible arrangements such as subject-to deals (taking over the existing payments), lease-purchase agreements, or even owner-financed terms. These options can stop the tax sale while giving you breathing room.

Letting the sale happen (last resort)

If no other solution works, the property will eventually be sold at auction. While this clears your tax debt, it may also mean losing any equity you had. It should always be considered the last resort.

Tips to Prevent Future Tax Sale Issues

Once you’ve handled the immediate crisis, planning ahead can keep you from facing the same stress again.

Set up escrow or automatic payments

If you have a mortgage, your lender may already collect property taxes through escrow. If not, consider setting up automatic payments directly with your county.

Track tax deadlines

Mark payment deadlines on your calendar or phone reminders. Missing one due date can start the spiral.

Explore property tax exemptions

Check if you qualify for homestead, senior, disability, or veteran exemptions. These can reduce your tax bill permanently.

FAQs About Homes on the Tax Sale List

What happens if my house is sold at a tax sale?
If your property sells, the winning bidder may either receive a lien (which you must pay back) or the deed itself, depending on your state.

Can I get my house back after the sale?
In many cases, yes—if your state has a redemption period. You can repay the taxes, interest, and fees to reclaim ownership.

How long do I have to redeem my property?
This varies by state and county. Some allow months, others years. Ask your local treasurer’s office right away.

Will this affect my credit?
Yes. Delinquent property taxes and tax sales can hurt your credit and may appear on public records, making it harder to borrow in the future.

Conclusion

Facing a tax sale can feel overwhelming, but you do have choices. Acting quickly—whether by paying off the debt, seeking financial assistance, or selling before the auction—can help you protect your financial future. The most important step is not to ignore the problem.

Call to Action

If your house is on the tax sale list in Kansas City or the surrounding area, Mastiff Home Buyers can help you review your options. Whether you’re trying to keep your home or want to sell before the auction, we’ll walk you through solutions that fit your situation. Contact us today for a confidential conversation and take the first step toward peace of mind.