How do I purchase property at tax sale?
Tax sales are conducted in the Shelby County Commission Chambers, 1st Floor, 157 Poplar Avenue and are open to
the public. On the date of the sale, anyone*
wishing to bid will need to arrive early for registration.
Registration begins at 8:30 am and ends at 10:00 am; each tax sale begins at 10:00 am.
A bidder must
register by 10:00 am in order to bid on property, complete a bidder information form, and receive a bidder card.
A bidder card is necessary to participate in the sale.
The highest bidder on a property must remain after the sale so that Chancery Court can verify
the bid amount. No deposit is required at that time.
* Employees or relatives of employees of the Shelby County Trustee's Office are not eligible to bid.
What are the responsibilities of a bidder?
Prior to the Tax Sale: A bidder is strongly advised to research properties
for potential purchase. This includes, but is not limited to, previewing the properties and looking up the legal descriptions
available on the Shelby County Register's website.
After the Tax Sale: A bidder must make full payment within 24 hours
(next business day) in the form of cashier's check, money order, or cash to the Chancery Court located at 140 Adams St, Memphis, TN 38103.
What does the minimum bid represent?
The minimum bid at tax sale is the total amount of city and county taxes owed, along with any fees associated with tax sale. These fees may include court costs, attorney fees, and service costs.
How does a bidder take title to the property?
A Clerk and Master's Deed to the property may be requested at any time AFTER the order confirming the Sale has been entered by calling the Chancery Court Clerk and Master's office at (901) 545-3864.
In order to transfer title to the property, a purchaser must register the deed
in the office of the Shelby County Register, 1075 Mullins Station, Suite W165, Memphis TN 38134.
When is the sale confirmed?
The confirmation date is typically 30-45 days after the date of sale. Contact
Shelby County Chancery Court for further information regarding confirmation of
the sale at (901) 545-3864.
What are my rights after purchasing property at tax sale?
For bidder rights and obligations after tax sale, consult an independent attorney.
What if someone redeems the property I purchased at tax sale?
The court will return the bid amount, along with 10% per annum on your bid
(calculated from the date of sale until the petition to redeem is filed).
All requests for reimbursement of maintenance and/or improvement costs incurred
by the purchaser are granted at the discretion of the Court. Seek the advice of
an independent attorney before making any improvements to the property or to
file the necessary petition requesting reimbursement for incurred costs.
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