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Texas tax sales: the season preview

Quick answerTexas sells redeemable tax deeds for unpaid property taxes. Lien buyers can earn 25% redemption premium in year 1, 50% in year 2 — flat premium on the aggregate (bid + deed fee + taxes/penalties/interest/costs paid by buyer), not annual interest. Year-2 50% rate applies only to homestead, agricultural, and mineral property; other property is capped at 25% (Tex. Tax Code §34.21). Redemption: 2 years from the date the purchaser's deed is filed for record for residence homestead, agricultural land, and mineral interests; 180 days from deed recording for all other property (§34.21) Sales: Sheriff/constable sales on the first Tuesday of every month Governing law: Texas Tax Code Chapter 33 (Delinquency) and Chapter 34 (Tax Sales and Redemption), esp. §§34.01, 34.21.

What's actually for sale

Texas sells redeemable tax deeds. Buyer receives a sheriff's/constable's deed immediately but title is subject to redemption; the 25% premium is owed even if redeemed on day 1, making quick redemptions highly profitable. Premium bidding — excess over minimum bid does not change the premium percentage.

The rate that decides your return

25% redemption premium in year 1, 50% in year 2 — flat premium on the aggregate (bid + deed fee + taxes/penalties/interest/costs paid by buyer), not annual interest. Year-2 50% rate applies only to homestead, agricultural, and mineral property; other property is capped at 25% (Tex. Tax Code §34.21)

The clock you're investing against

Sale schedule: Sheriff/constable sales on the first Tuesday of every month

Redemption: 2 years from the date the purchaser's deed is filed for record for residence homestead, agricultural land, and mineral interests; 180 days from deed recording for all other property (§34.21)

Where the sales happen

Mostly in-person on courthouse steps; a growing minority online via RealAuction, GovEase, MVBA Online Auction, and Linebarger Goggan (LGBS) county portals — platform is county-specific. Lists post on the county's schedule, change as owners redeem, and registration typically closes before sale day — the investors who see the list first set the market.

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Deep dives: Texas laws · Texas investing guide · Texas sale calendar. Law verified 2026-10-30.