Travis County Tax OfficeDoes Travis County sell tax liens for back taxes?
The tax office does not sell tax liens. Texas law allows the public to purchase properties from the county at a monthly tax foreclosure sale. The states sells the deed to the property.
Note: The state does not sell tax lien certificates where a buyer becomes the lienholder for the back taxes.
Do I need to register in advance?
Yes. In order to participate in a tax sale, you will need to register with RealAuction and the tax office.
- Register with RealAuction: Head to the Travis RealAuction website and register. Here, you will choose the name you want on the Constable's Deed. Remember your bidder number from RealAuction.
- Register with the tax office: Submit the Bidder Registration (Solicitud para participar en las subastas de propiedades) and the $10 fee online at least five business days before the date of the sale.
How does a tax sale work?
Travis county tax sales are conducted by RealAuction. Interested bidders are encouraged to complete the RealAuction training and review the RealAuction FAQs for more information.
Can I visit foreclosed properties before the sale?
We understand prospective buyers want to visit the properties before the sale, but the tax office does not arrange or encourage these visits. We have no information about the state of the property, its tenants or any animals that may be present. If you choose to enter the property, you do so at your own risk. You may view pictures of the properties with structures in the sales list. We do not post pictures of raw land.
Are there any additional costs other than amount of the winning bid?
The minimum bid consists of tax, penalties and interest, attorney fees and court fees for the years used to foreclose on the property. Other unpaid delinquent tax years not included in the minimum bid appear as "Additional Taxes Due" in the sales list.
How can I find information about non-tax related foreclosure sales?
Foreclosure sales unrelated to delinquent taxes are available from the Travis County Clerk.
Where is the list of auctioned properties that sold for more than the taxes owed?
Property sales records available from the Travis County District Clerk.
The property owner also owed me money. How can I get the debt paid from the foreclosure sale?
If the property sold for more than the taxes owed, you can file a petition with the Travis County District Clerk. That information is available from the Travis County Attorney.