Georgia Tax Deed Attorneys Who Understand Tax Deed Investing

Tax deeds are an incredible investment opportunity. When property owners fall behind on their taxes, the county can put liens on the property and sell the real estate. Auctions of these deeds are typically run by the Sheriff or Tax Commissioner. The return on investing in tax deeds is a minimum of 20% and potentially more if the process is properly handled.

To make the most of that opportunity, it is best to work with counsel who has extensive experience in successfully navigating the process. That is where McKillip Law Firm comes in. We are a law firm based in Watkinsville that serves Georgia and the Atlanta metro area and has been doing so since 1996.

Tax Deeds Versus Tax Liens: What Is The Difference?

The distinction between tax deeds and tax liens often causes confusion for new real estate investors. In Georgia, the process is unique because the state uses a redeemable deed system. This is a rundown of what to know:

• Tax liens: A legal claim against a property for unpaid taxes. It does not transfer ownership, but it prevents the owner from selling or refinancing without paying the debt.

• Tax deeds: Issued after a property is sold at a public auction to recover delinquent taxes. The purchaser receives a deed, but the original owner and any lienholders retain the right to redeem the property.

• Redeemable deeds: In Georgia, tax sales result in a redeemable deed. You hold the deed, but you must wait at least one year before you can bar the right of redemption and claim full fee simple ownership.

We can help you identify which instrument fits your portfolio and how to manage the risks associated with each.

Our tax deed investing attorneys help you move from a tax sale purchase to a clear title. We ensure you follow the strict statutory timelines to protect your investment. Whether you are seeking the 20%+ penalty return or to own the property itself, we work tenaciously toward your goals.

Your Partners In Tax Deed Investing

There are two different ways to realize profit from tax deeds:

• Redemption: The original property owner and any lienholder can redeem the property from the holder of the tax deed. The redeeming party is required to pay the tax deed purchaser’s auction price plus 20% for the first year, with an additional 10% added for each additional year, as well as all taxes paid post-tax sale. For an investor who wants to secure a 20% rate of return while taking minimal action, having the original property owner or a lienholder redeem the deed can be a great way of achieving that goal.
• Taking possession: After acquiring title through a tax deed, the tax deed purchaser must complete various steps before gaining the right of possession of the property. These steps stand between an investor and a clean, insurable title that can be sold. The first step to clear title on a property is to foreclose the right to redeem. This is a legally complicated procedure that McKillip Law Firm has successfully completed for our clients on hundreds of properties.
• Quiet title lawsuits: For the investor who wants a clear, insurable title to a property, the quiet title lawsuit is the best option. We have converted hundreds of properties sold at tax sale to fee simple, insurable title for clients and investors. Our skilled staff has streamlined this procedure, and we can successfully complete these lawsuits in a matter of months. At the conclusion of the lawsuit, our clients have a property which has been declared free of all liens and encumbrances by a Superior Court Judge, and will be insurable, so you get top dollar when you sell it.

We can help you navigate these processes and help you make the most of your investment.

Extensive Tax Deed Experience

Attorney Doug McKillip has purchased more than 500 properties by tax deed himself, in addition to the help and advice he has offered others. This firsthand experience allows him to offer guidance and strategies that will protect your investment and help you manage it effectively. Whether you are interested in simply holding the property until it is redeemed or you want to take possession and acquire a clear title to the property – to rent, sell or live in – he can help you.

Managing Tax Liens To Protect Your Investment

A tax lien is a legal claim filed by a government entity against a property when the owner fails to pay their property taxes. This lien prevents the owner from transferring or refinancing the asset until the debt is fully satisfied. In Georgia, these liens take priority over most other encumbrances, including mortgages. Our attorneys help you identify these liens during the due diligence phase so you do not inherit hidden liabilities. After analyzing the validity of the lien, we can assist with the payoff or the negotiation process to reach a clean closing.

Have You Received A Levy Notice?

Falling behind on your property taxes can lead to the government putting a lien against your home, and even putting it up for sale at auction. Even if you think you have already lost your home, you may have options that will save it for you. We are experienced in tax deeds and can help homeowners understand their options and how to protect and keep their homes. Call us about property tax problems.

Speak With Our Tax Deed Investing Lawyers: Free Consultations

Do not go into tax deed investing blind. There is a tremendous opportunity, but having experienced guidance can make all the difference. To schedule a free consultation, call 706-925-5923 or contact us online.