Navigating the world of property acquisition can present unique opportunities, and tax deed sales in St. Johns County, Florida, are a prime example. These sales, conducted by the Clerk of the Circuit Court upon notification from the St. Johns County Tax Collector, offer a pathway to property ownership by bidding on parcels with delinquent real estate taxes. Understanding this process and leveraging resources like the St. Johns County Property Appraiser is crucial for any prospective buyer. This guide will walk you through the essentials of tax deed sales and highlight how to effectively utilize the Property Appraiser’s office for your property research.
Understanding Tax Deed Sales in St. Johns County
Tax deed sales are public auctions held to recover unpaid property taxes. When property owners fail to pay their real estate taxes, the Tax Collector initiates a process that can lead to a tax deed sale. These sales are governed by Florida Statutes, Chapter 197, and the Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 12D-13, and are meticulously managed by the Clerk’s Office to ensure compliance and fairness.
It’s important to recognize that when you participate in a tax deed sale, you are bidding on the opportunity to obtain a Tax Deed on the property. Tax Certificates, representing delinquent taxes, are initially sold by the Tax Collector. If the certificate holder requests a tax deed sale, the process is forwarded to the Clerk. The auction then takes place, and the highest bidder is issued a Tax Deed, potentially leading to property ownership.
However, a critical aspect to remember is that all properties are sold “AS IS“. This means the Clerk’s Office provides no guarantees or representations about the property’s condition, location, title, or any potential issues. Prospective bidders must conduct thorough due diligence independently. The Clerk’s office explicitly states, “YOU MUST DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH FOR EACH PROPERTY,” emphasizing the responsibility of the bidder to assess all aspects of the property before bidding. This research is where the St. Johns County Property Appraiser becomes an invaluable resource.
The Indispensable Role of the St. Johns County Property Appraiser
Before participating in any tax deed sale, thorough research is not just recommended—it’s essential. The St. Johns County Property Appraiser (http://www.sjcpa.us/Search.html?panel=1#PropRecSrch) provides a wealth of publicly accessible information that is vital for anyone considering bidding on a property.
The Property Appraiser’s website allows you to:
- Access Property Records: Obtain detailed information about the property, including legal descriptions, parcel numbers, ownership history, and more.
- Assess Property Values: Review assessed values, which can provide insights into the property’s market worth, although tax deed sales can sometimes offer properties below market value.
- View Property Maps: Examine maps to understand the property’s location, boundaries, and surrounding areas.
- Check for Permits and Improvements: Inquire about any permits on file or recorded improvements to the property, which can be crucial in evaluating its condition and potential.
By utilizing the resources of the St. Johns County Property Appraiser, bidders can make informed decisions, understand the potential value and risks associated with a property, and avoid costly mistakes. This proactive approach to research is a cornerstone of successful tax deed acquisitions.
Navigating the Tax Deed Sale Process: Key Points for Bidders
The tax deed sale process has specific points of interest that bidders need to be aware of:
- Publication: Sales are publicly advertised in the St. Augustine Record newspaper for four weeks leading up to the sale date, ensuring transparency and public notice.
- Sale Time: Auctions are conducted at 12:00 noon on the scheduled sale day, unless the property is redeemed by the owner prior to the sale. Punctuality and preparedness are key.
- Bidding: Active participation requires physical presence at the sale. Bidders are expected to conduct their research beforehand and maintain decorum during the auction. Any bidding increments are generally accepted, but disruptive behavior is not tolerated.
For successful bidders, there are immediate financial obligations:
- Deposit: The highest bidder must pay a non-refundable deposit immediately at the time of sale. This deposit is the greater of 5% of the final bid or $200 and must be paid in cash or certified funds. Personal checks and cards are not accepted.
- Payment of Additional Costs: Florida law mandates that the successful bidder has 24 hours to pay any remaining balance and additional costs associated with the sale, again via cash or certified funds.
It is also essential to provide the Clerk with the exact name and address as you want it to appear on the Tax Deed immediately after a successful bid.
Fees, Surplus Funds, and Further Information
Understanding the costs involved and the potential for surplus funds is also important:
- Tax Deed Fees: Florida Statutes dictate the fees associated with tax deed sales, which cover application, sheriff fees for service, postage, advertising, and sale day deposits. These fees vary per case.
- Surplus Funds: If a property sells for more than the opening bid, a surplus may occur. These excess funds are managed according to Florida Statute 197.582 and are searchable via the tax deed search link provided by the Clerk.
For more detailed information, the Tax Deed Department can be contacted directly at 904-819-3632 or via email at [email protected]. Additionally, the St. Johns County Tax Collector (http://www.sjctax.us/) website provides further resources related to property taxes.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Property Investment Journey
Tax deed sales in St. Johns County can be an avenue to property ownership, but they require careful preparation and due diligence. Leveraging the resources offered by the St. Johns County Property Appraiser is a critical step in this process. By thoroughly researching properties, understanding the sale procedures, and being prepared for the financial commitments, potential buyers can navigate tax deed sales effectively. Remember, this information is for guidance and not legal advice; consulting with a qualified attorney is always recommended for specific situations.
