Investing in tax sale properties can be a profitable venture, but understanding the specific rules and processes is crucial to making informed decisions. The St. Mary’s County, Maryland Tax Sale is scheduled for Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., and will be held online. Investors interested in participating must be aware of registration deadlines, bidding procedures, and financial obligations.
What Is the St. Mary’s County Tax Sale?
The St. Mary’s County tax sale is a public auction where tax-delinquent properties are sold to the highest bidder. This process helps the county recover unpaid property taxes and gives investors an opportunity to earn interest on tax lien certificates or, in some cases, acquire properties. The auction includes state, county, and municipal tax liabilities, as well as arrears from the St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission (METCOM). Buyers should be aware that purchasing a tax lien does not immediately grant property ownership—it provides the right to collect the owed debt plus interest. If the property owner does not redeem the lien, the investor may have the opportunity to initiate foreclosure proceedings and take ownership.
How to Participate in the St. Mary’s County Tax Sale
To participate in the March 7, 2025, tax sale, investors must complete the online registration process and submit a refundable deposit. Registration for the tax sale opens on Saturday, February 1, 2025, and closes on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. (noon). A $100 refundable deposit is required at the time of registration, payable via ACH Debit authorization. The auction will be conducted online at stmarys.marylandtaxsale.com, with bidding beginning on March 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. If the sale is impeded, it will be held on March 14, 2025 instead. Successful bidders must pay all outstanding taxes and auction fees as listed. Late registrations will not be accepted, making it essential to complete the process before the deadline.
When bidding, investors should keep in mind that the starting bid typically includes all outstanding tax balances, interest, and administrative costs. In some cases, competitive bidding may drive prices above the base tax amount. Winning bidders must make full payment promptly to secure their lien certificates.
Things to Consider Before Bidding
Investing in tax sales comes with risks and responsibilities. Before bidding, investors should research properties thoroughly. Unlike traditional real estate transactions, tax sale properties are sold as-is, sight unseen, meaning there are no guarantees about the condition of the property. Maryland law allows property owners a six-month redemption period, during which they can repay their taxes with interest to reclaim their property. If the property owner does not redeem within the required time, the lienholder may begin foreclosure proceedings to obtain the deed.
Potential investors should be mindful of additional risks, such as existing mortgages, environmental violations, or municipal liens that may not be eliminated through the tax sale process. Conducting a thorough title search can help identify encumbrances that could impact an investor’s return on investment.
Why You Should Hire a Lawyer for Tax Sales
Navigating tax sales requires an in-depth understanding of Maryland’s tax laws, redemption timelines, and foreclosure processes. Hiring a lawyer can help ensure compliance and protect your investment. A lawyer can assist with reviewing property records, conducting due diligence, and clarifying legal obligations. If a property is not redeemed, an attorney can handle foreclosure proceedings and ensure a smooth transition to ownership. Legal professionals can also help identify potential legal and financial risks before bidding.
Additionally, if disputes arise—such as property owners challenging the validity of the tax sale or potential heirs making claims on the property—a legal expert can provide crucial guidance and representation.
Get Professional Assistance for Your Tax Sale Investment
At LewisMcDaniels, we provide legal guidance for investors participating in Maryland tax sales, including the St. Mary’s County 2025 Tax Sale. Whether you’re a first-time investor or a seasoned professional, our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of tax lien purchases. Our legal team will assist you with property due diligence, risk assessment, foreclosure procedures, and ensuring compliance with Maryland tax sale laws.
Contact LewisMcDaniels today for expert legal assistance in tax sale investments. Visit us at www.lewismcdaniels.com to schedule a consultation and ensure you make informed, legally sound investment decisions.
