Hundreds of tax-defaulted properties across San Diego County are heading to the auction block next month, giving prospective buyers a chance to bid on more than 686 parcels — some starting as low as $2,000.
According to the San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office, the annual online property tax auction is scheduled to run from Friday, March 13, through Wednesday, March 18. Bidder registration is open now, but interested buyers must sign up no later than March 5 to participate.
San Diego County Treasurer Larry Cohen explained why these properties end up on the auction block each year. “Every year our office hosts a property tax auction to sell properties that have been in tax default for five or more years,” Cohen said. “We make every effort to reach defaulted property owners so they can keep their properties, but we are mandated by the California Revenue and Taxation Code to sell properties that have been in default over five years.”
Cohen also highlighted the opportunity the auction presents for buyers. “This year we have hundreds of properties that might be the perfect opportunity for a hopeful buyer,” he said. “Our online system makes it simple to research and bid on a variety of properties across San Diego County.”
The county estimates it could bring in $18,200,000 in tax revenue if all 686 properties sell at their minimum bids.
To register as a bidder, prospective buyers must submit a refundable $1,000 advance bid deposit and a non-refundable $35 processing fee through the auction website at sdttc.mytaxsale.com. Both payments must be received no later than 5 p.m. Pacific Time on Thursday, March 5. Registration is not accepted by mail.
Auctions will begin at 8 a.m. Pacific Time on Friday, March 13, with closings starting Monday, March 16 at 8 a.m. and continuing through Wednesday, March 18 at various intervals. Winners must pay in full within five business days of the close of their auction.
There are a few important caveats for buyers to keep in mind. All sales are final — the county calls it a “buyer beware” sale. Most title companies will not insure a property’s title until one year after the tax sale deed is recorded. The county also advises winners not to make improvements to a property during that first year of ownership.
Owners of properties listed in the auction still have a window to avoid losing their homes. According to the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s website, owners can redeem their parcels and pay all taxes and fees owed up until 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, the day before the auction begins.
Potential bidders who want email reminders about deadlines can sign up for e-notifications at sdttc.com. For tax collection questions, the office can be reached at 1-877-829-4732 or by email at taxman@sdcounty.ca.gov.
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