Understanding St. Johns County FL property appraiser resources is crucial when exploring tax deed sales. This guide provides essential information about tax deed sales in St. Johns County, focusing on how to utilize the Property Appraiser’s office and other key resources for informed bidding. Tax deed sales occur when properties with delinquent real estate taxes are sold at public auction. The St. Johns County Clerk of Court conducts these sales, acting upon notification from the St. Johns County Tax Collector. This process is governed by Florida Statutes, Chapter 197, and Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 12D-13, ensuring a legal framework for recovering unpaid taxes.
Tax certificates, representing unpaid taxes, are initially sold by the Tax Collector. If the certificate holder requests a tax deed sale, the process moves to the Clerk’s Office, culminating in a public auction. The highest bidder at this auction receives a Tax Deed for the property. It’s vital to recognize that all properties are sold “AS IS.” Prospective bidders bear the responsibility for thorough due diligence, investigating the property’s condition and title status. Your own research is paramount for each property; seeking legal counsel is also advisable. The Clerk’s Office explicitly disclaims any warranties or representations regarding property location, condition, structures, marketability, zoning, potential liens, mortgages, encumbrances, or title defects.
This sale pertains to the Tax Certificate, not necessarily a clear and marketable property title. No court case or order precedes the Clerk’s Tax Deed Sale conduct. The Clerk’s Office cannot offer property research assistance or legal advice.
Utilizing the Tax Deed Search Tool
Tax Deed Search
The Tax Deed search portal offers access to Tax Deed files, images, surplus funds information, and available lands. A search yielding no results indicates no current active cases.
Key Considerations for Tax Deed Sales
- Publication: Public notice of impending tax deed sales appears in the St. Augustine Record newspaper for four weeks leading up to the sale date. This public notice is a critical step in ensuring transparency and informing potential buyers.
- Sale Time: Tax Deed Sales are scheduled for 12:00 noon on the designated sale day, unless the property is redeemed (taxes are paid) before the sale commences.
- Bidding Process: Prior property research is indispensable before bidding. Once bidding begins, interruptions are not permitted. Maintaining a respectful and quiet environment during the auction is expected. Bidding increments are flexible. Bidders or their representatives must be physically present to participate in the auction. Understanding the bidding process fully is crucial for successful participation.
Crucially, understanding the nature of your purchase and potential property liens is paramount.
- Successful Bidder Obligations: The highest bidder must provide a non-refundable deposit immediately upon winning the bid. This deposit is the greater of 5% of the final bid or $200. Payment must be in cash or certified funds; personal checks and credit/debit cards are not accepted for the initial deposit.
Florida law mandates that the successful bidder must settle all remaining costs associated with the sale within 24 hours. Acceptable payment methods for the remaining balance are also limited to cash or certified funds, excluding personal checks and credit/debit cards. At the sale’s conclusion, the winning bidder must furnish the exact name and address for deed recording purposes.
FOR FURTHER DETAILS regarding bidding requirements, payment procedures, surplus fund handling, and other inquiries, contact the Tax Deed Department directly at 904-819-3632 or via email at [email protected].
Essential Informational Websites
St. Johns County Property Appraiser
St. Johns County Tax Collector
For deeper insights into Tax Deed sales, consult the Tax Deeds Frequently Asked Questions resource. The St. Johns County Property Appraiser website is an invaluable tool for conducting property research. It provides access to property records, parcel information, property values, and maps, all crucial for assessing a property before bidding. Understanding property values and characteristics via the Property Appraiser can inform your bidding strategy and due diligence. The St. Johns County Tax Collector website offers information related to property taxes and tax certificates, providing context to the tax deed sale process.
Tax Deed Related Fees
Florida Statutes establish the fee structure for Tax Deed Sales. The following table outlines typical fees, which are payable to the Clerk of the Circuit Court by the initiating party. Note that fees can fluctuate based on individual case specifics.
| Tax Deeds | Fees | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Application Fee | $60 | 28.24(21) |
| Sheriff Fee (per person served) | $40 | 30.231(1)(a) |
| Postage Costs | Varies | 28.24(27) |
| Advertising Fee | Varies | 197.512(1) |
| Sale Day Deposit (greater of) | $200 or 5% of highest bid | 197.542(2) |
| Winning Bid Payment | Final bid amount (minus deposit), recording fee, doc stamps | Varies |
| Surplus Handling Fee | $10 | 28.24(22) |
| Disbursement of Proceeds | Varies | 197.582(2) |
Understanding Surplus Funds
A tax deed sale surplus arises when the final sale price exceeds the initial opening bid. Florida Statute 197.582 governs the handling and disbursement of these excess funds. Details regarding surplus funds for specific cases are accessible via the surplus funds tab within the tax deed search link.
Important General Information Notice
Information provided by the Clerk of Circuit Court serves as basic guidance and may not encompass every situation. It should not be interpreted as legal advice. For specific legal counsel concerning tax deed sales, consult a qualified attorney. Leveraging resources like the St. Johns County Property Appraiser and understanding the procedural aspects outlined here are vital steps in navigating tax deed sales effectively.
