By: Sandra M. Edmond
If you’re an investor looking for lucrative opportunities in real estate, tax lien certificate auctions in Florida should be on your radar. These auctions offer a unique way to invest in property by purchasing tax lien certificates, which can yield significant returns. This article will cover the upcoming certificate sales in Florida, explain the bidding process, highlight the benefits of investing in tax lien certificates, and introduce you to a valuable resource for learning how to navigate these auctions successfully. Links to each sale can be found on our county links page.
Upcoming Tax Lien Certificate Sales in Central Florida
The tax lien certificate sales season is here, and Central Florida has a busy schedule lined up. Here are the key dates you need to mark on your calendar:
- Brevard County: May 30, 2024
- Volusia County: May 31, 2024
- Osceola County: June 1, 2024
- Orange County: June 1, 2024
- Flagler County: June 1, 2024
- Lake County: June 1, 2024
- Seminole County: June 1, 2024
- Alachua County: June 1, 2024
- Sumter County: June 1, 2024
- Polk County: June 3, 2024
In addition to these, there are other major sales in the rest of the Sunshine State that you should be aware of:
- Hillsborough County: May 25, 2024
- Duval County: May 29, 2024
- Palm Beach County: May 29, 2024
- Pinellas County: June 1, 2024
- Sarasota County: June 1, 2024
Understanding the Bid Down Method in Florida
Florida uses the bid down method to sell tax lien certificates, which is a unique and competitive process. Here’s how it works:
- Starting Interest Rate: The bidding starts at the maximum interest rate allowed by the state, which is 18% per year.
- Competitive Bidding: Investors bid down the interest rate they are willing to accept. The investor willing to accept the lowest interest rate wins the certificate.
- Winning the Bid: The winning bidder pays the outstanding property taxes and receives a tax lien certificate.
Interest Rates and Investment Returns
The tax lien certificates in Florida start at an interest rate of 18%. This rate can be bid down during the auction process. Here’s what you need to know about the returns:
- Maximum Interest Rate: 18% per annum.
- Minimum Bid Rate: 0% (though bidding this low is not common, as it eliminates interest income).
- Winning the Bid: The winning bidder pays the outstanding property taxes and receives a tax lien certificate.
- Minimum Interest Paid: As long as you don’t bid down to 0%, you will receive at least 5% interest per year
Investors earn interest on their investment based on the bid rate. If the property owner redeems the lien (pays off the owed taxes), the investor receives their investment plus the interest at the bid rate.
Types of Properties at Certificate Sales
Tax lien certificate auctions in Florida feature a variety of property types, including:
Residential Properties: Single-family homes, condos, and multi-family units.
Commercial Properties: Office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial properties.
Vacant Land: Undeveloped parcels of land, both residential and commercial.
Agricultural Land: Farms and ranches.
Benefits of Investing in Tax Lien Certificates
Investing in tax lien certificates offers several benefits:
- High Returns: Potential to earn high interest rates on your investment.
- Property Acquisition: If the property owner fails to redeem the lien, you can eventually acquire the property through foreclosure.
- Secured Investment: The investment is secured by the property itself.
- Diversification: Adds a new asset class to your investment portfolio.
- Legal Protection: Florida law protects tax lien investors by guaranteeing interest payment or property acquisition.
Learning from the Best: Sandra Edmond, the Queen of Tax Deeds
For those new to tax lien certificate investing or looking to enhance their knowledge, Sandra Edmond, known as the Queen of Tax Deeds, offers an unparalleled 2-Day Tax Deed & Lien Field Trip. Sandra has been investing since 2004. This training program provides in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in buying tax deeds and liens. For those who prefer to study at your own pace her online program, Tax Deeds at Your Fingertips, offers similar training. Sandra’s expertise and practical insights make this field trip an invaluable resource for both novice and experienced investors.
Ready to get started!
Tax lien certificate auctions in Florida present a wealth of opportunities for savvy investors. By understanding the bid down method, recognizing the benefits of investing in tax lien certificates, and taking advantage of educational resources like Sandra Edmond’s programs, you can position yourself for success in this lucrative market. Don’t miss out on the upcoming sales in Florida and throughout the US. Stay informed, be prepared, and make the most of the tax lien certificate investment season.
For more detailed information on upcoming sales and tips on how to succeed in tax lien certificate auctions, visit our blog. Happy investing!