Tax Forfeited Properties

Tax forfeited parcels are properties on which delinquent property taxes were not paid, title to the land and buildings was forfeited and title is now vested in the State of Minnesota. Following a review period per Minnesota statutes, these properties are classified and open to the public to purchase.

All property is sold "as is" and may not conform to local building and zoning ordinances. The County makes no warranty that the land is "buildable." All sales are final, and no refunds or exchanges are permitted. 

Tax-Forfeited Properties Available for Sale Over the Counter

Tax-Forfeited Land Sale Terms

Upcoming Tax-Forfeited Land Auctions:

Currently, we do not have any upcoming tax forfeited land auctions scheduled.  Check back for information regarding future auctions.

Typically, tax-forfeited land auctions are scheduled once per year.

To be notified of upcoming tax forfeited land auctions, click the link below:

Request to be Notified of Upcoming Tax-Forfeited Land Auction

Terms

Conditions

Sales are subject to existing leases, if any, building restrictions appearing on record at the time of forfeiture, easements, all applicable laws and ordinances, and with the understanding that the appraised value does not represent a basis for future taxes. All property is sold "as is" and may not conform to local building and zoning ordinances. The County makes no warranty that the land is "buildable." All sales are final, and no refunds or exchanges are permitted.

Title

The purchaser will receive a certificate of sale at the time of purchase. The State Commissioner of Revenue will issue a deed from the State of Minnesota after full payment is made. The conveyance shall have the force and effect of a patent from the State. However, services of an attorney may be necessary to make the title marketable.

Laws & Statutes

We highly recommend that you thoroughly research any tax-forfeited parcels before you purchase. Information about Minnesota laws regarding delinquent taxes and tax forfeiture is available for your review at any local library. The following statutes apply:

To view these and other Minnesota Statutes, please see the Minnesota State Legislature website.

For specific legal issues, you should consider consulting your own legal counsel.

What you Should Know Before Purchasing

Public Sale

All tax forfeited parcels are appraised and must be offered at a public auction and sold to the highest bidder. The minimum bid accepted is the appraised value.

Counter Sales

Parcels not sold at an auction may be purchased by anyone who pays the appraised value. Prices cannot be changed unless a parcel is re-appraised, advertised and again offered at public auction.

Assurance Fee

When a tax forfeited parcel is sold, the Auditor/Treasurer's Department collects an amount equal to 3% of the total sale price of the land, which is in addition to the price of the land. The assurance fee is paid to the State of Minnesota.