Understanding tax deed sales in St. Johns County, Florida, can be a pathway to property ownership. These sales, arising from unpaid property taxes, are managed by the Clerk of the Circuit Court and are governed by Florida Statutes. For anyone considering participating in these public auctions, a crucial resource is the St. Johns County Property Appraiser. Their office provides essential information that is vital for making informed decisions before you bid.
Understanding Tax Deed Sales in St. Johns County
Tax deed sales occur when property owners fail to pay their real estate taxes. The St. Johns County Tax Collector initiates this process, and upon request from a tax certificate holder, the Clerk’s Office conducts a public auction. This auction aims to recover the delinquent taxes by selling the property to the highest bidder. It’s important to recognize that initially, a tax certificate is sold, representing a lien on the property. Only later, if the certificate holder requests, does it proceed to a tax deed sale. Winning bidders receive a tax deed, granting them ownership of the property, albeit with certain conditions.
The Crucial Role of the St. Johns County Property Appraiser
Before participating in a tax deed sale, thorough research is paramount. This is where the St. Johns County Property Appraiser becomes an indispensable tool. Their website (http://www.sjcpa.us/Search.html?panel=1#PropRecSrch) offers a wealth of information about properties in the county. You can utilize their online search tools to:
- Identify Property Details: Access comprehensive information about a property’s characteristics, including size, features, and any structures on it.
- Assess Property Value: Review the appraised value of the property, which can provide insights into its market worth, though tax deed sales can sometimes offer properties below market value.
- Examine Property Maps: Utilize maps and parcel information to understand the property’s location, boundaries, and surrounding area.
- Review Ownership History: Although tax deed sales are due to tax delinquency, understanding past ownership can sometimes provide context.
Remember, the Clerk’s Office explicitly states that properties are sold “AS IS“. This means it is solely the bidder’s responsibility to conduct due diligence. The St. Johns County Property Appraiser’s resources are designed to empower you to perform this essential research.
Navigating the Tax Deed Sale Process
The tax deed sale process in St. Johns County has specific steps and points to consider:
Points of Interest for Tax Deed Sales
- Publication: Sales are publicly advertised in the St. Augustine Record newspaper for four weeks leading up to the sale date. This ensures transparency and provides notice to potential bidders.
- Sale Time: Auctions typically occur at 12:00 noon on the scheduled sale day, unless the property owner redeems the property by paying the outstanding taxes before the sale.
- Bidding: Prior research is crucial. Bidders should investigate properties thoroughly, using resources like the St. Johns County Property Appraiser, before the auction begins. Once bidding commences, interruptions are not permitted, and a respectful auction environment is expected. Bidding increments are flexible, but physical presence at the sale is mandatory to participate.
- Successful Bidder and Payment: The highest bidder must immediately pay a non-refundable deposit, which is the greater of 5% of the final bid or $200. Payment must be in cash or certified funds only; personal checks and cards are not accepted. The successful bidder then has 24 hours to settle any remaining costs associated with the sale, again via cash or certified funds. Name and address details for the tax deed must be provided at the sale’s conclusion.
Note: It is critical to understand that you are purchasing the property “as is” and potential liens or encumbrances may exist. Utilizing the St. Johns County Property Appraiser’s data can help uncover some property details, but a comprehensive title search is advisable.
Informational Websites
For further research and information, these official websites are invaluable:
- St. Johns County Property Appraiser: (http://www.sjcpa.us/Search.html?panel=1#PropRecSrch) – For property details, valuations, and maps.
- St. Johns County Tax Collector: (http://www.sjctax.us/) – For information on property taxes and tax certificates.
For frequently asked questions specifically about Tax Deed sales, the Clerk’s Office provides a helpful FAQ section: Tax Deeds Frequently Asked Questions.
Fees and Costs Associated with Tax Deed Sales
Participating in tax deed sales involves several fees, as dictated by Florida Statutes. These fees are payable to the Clerk of the Circuit Court and vary per case.
| Tax Deeds | Fee | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | $60 application fee | 28.24(21) |
| Sheriff fee | $40 per person to be served | 30.231(1)(a) |
| Postage | Varies | 28.24(27) |
| Advertising fee | Varies | 197.512(1) |
| Sale day deposit | $200 or 5% of highest bid (greater) | 197.542(2) |
| Winning bid | Final bid amount (minus deposit), recording fee, doc stamps | |
| Surplus | $10 Clerk fee | 28.24(22) |
| Disbursement of Proceeds | Varies | 197.582(2) |
Surplus Funds
In situations where a tax deed sale price exceeds the opening bid, a surplus is created. These excess funds are handled according to Florida Statute 197.582. Details about surplus funds cases can usually be found via the tax deed search link, often under a “surplus funds” tab.
General Information Notice
The information provided by the Clerk of Circuit Court is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Prospective bidders should consult with a qualified attorney for specific legal guidance related to tax deed sales. Remember to utilize resources like the St. Johns County Property Appraiser to conduct thorough research and understand the properties you are interested in bidding on. Contact the Tax Deed Department at 904-819-3632 or [email protected] for further information.
