Introduction
Falling behind on property taxes can be stressful, especially when the risk of foreclosure looms over your home. If you owe back taxes on your property in Augusta, Georgia, you may wonder: Can I still sell my house? The good news is yes, you can sell a house with unpaid property taxes, but the process requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transaction.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
✅ How unpaid property taxes impact your ability to sell.
✅ The risks of waiting too long to take action.
✅ Step-by-step instructions on how to sell your home even if you owe back taxes.
✅ Alternative solutions if selling isn’t the right option for you.
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand your options and how to avoid losing your home to tax foreclosure in Augusta.
1. Understanding Property Taxes in Augusta, GA
Before diving into the selling process, it’s important to understand how property taxes work in Augusta.
How Property Taxes Are Assessed
- Property taxes in Augusta-Richmond County are based on the assessed value of your home.
- The millage rate (or tax rate) determines the amount owed annually.
- Taxes are collected by the Richmond County Tax Commissioner’s Office.
When Are Property Taxes Due in Augusta?
- Due Date: Property taxes in Augusta are typically due on November 15th each year.
- If you miss the due date, penalties and interest start accruing, increasing your total debt over time.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay Your Property Taxes?
❌ Late Fees & Interest Accrual – A penalty is added, plus interest charges.
❌ Tax Lien on Your Property – The county places a legal claim on your home.
❌ Tax Lien Sale or Tax Deed Sale – If the debt isn’t resolved, the government can sell the lien to investors, or worse, sell your home at auction.
📌 Pro Tip: The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to resolve tax debt and avoid foreclosure. Taking action early is key!
2. Can You Sell a House With Unpaid Property Taxes?
Yes! If you’re behind on property taxes in Augusta, you can still sell your house, but you’ll need to address the unpaid taxes during the sale process. Here’s how:
Option 1: Pay the Taxes at Closing
- When you sell your home, the unpaid property taxes will be deducted from your sale proceeds.
- The closing attorney will ensure the tax debt is settled before you receive any remaining profits.
Best for: Homeowners who have enough equity to cover the tax debt after selling.
Option 2: Negotiate With the Tax Office
- Some sellers can work with the Richmond County Tax Commissioner’s Office to establish a payment plan or temporary hold on foreclosure.
- This can buy you time while you list and sell your home.
Best for: Homeowners needing extra time before selling.
Option 3: Sell Your Home for Cash to Pay Off Debt Quickly
If time is running out and foreclosure is imminent, selling your home as-is to a cash buyer can provide a fast and hassle-free way to pay off your tax debt.
Benefits of Selling to a Cash Buyer in Augusta:
✅ No need for repairs or staging.
✅ Fast closings (often within 7-14 days).
✅ No agent commissions or hidden fees.
✅ Cash buyers handle tax liens & legal complications for you.
Best for: Homeowners who need to sell quickly to avoid foreclosure or auction.
📌 Need a fast cash offer? Martin Legacy Holdings specializes in buying homes with unpaid taxes in Augusta—no repairs, no stress, just a straightforward sale.
3. Steps to Selling a House With Property Tax Debt in Augusta
Step 1: Determine How Much You Owe
- Contact the Richmond County Tax Commissioner’s Office or check online to get an exact payoff amount.
- Factor in penalties and interest accrued.
📌 Pro Tip: If your home has a tax lien, you may need to request a lien release before closing.
Step 2: Assess Your Home’s Value & Equity
- Determine your home’s market value through online tools or a real estate professional.
- Calculate how much equity you have by subtracting your mortgage balance and unpaid taxes from your home’s estimated sale price.
📌 Example Calculation:
🏡 Estimated Home Value: $200,000
📉 Mortgage Balance: $120,000
📉 Unpaid Property Taxes: $5,000
💰 Equity Available After Sale: $75,000
If you have enough equity, selling should be straightforward. If not, you may need a short sale or other alternative.
Step 3: Decide How to Sell Your Home
- List with a real estate agent if you can afford time on the market.
- Sell for cash if you need a quick, hassle-free transaction.
💡 Want to sell fast? Contact Martin Legacy Holdings to get a no-obligation cash offer today!
Step 4: Use Sale Proceeds to Pay Off Property Taxes
At closing, any unpaid taxes will be automatically deducted from the proceeds before you receive your final payout.
4. Alternatives If You Can’t Sell in Time
If selling isn’t an immediate option, consider these alternatives:
Set Up a Payment Plan
Many counties offer installment plans to help homeowners catch up on back taxes.
Apply for a Property Tax Exemption
Seniors, disabled individuals, and veterans may qualify for tax relief programs that reduce or eliminate property tax burdens.
Refinance or Take Out a Home Equity Loan
If you have enough equity, you may be able to refinance your mortgage to pay off tax debt.
Negotiate a Short Sale (If You Have No Equity)
If you owe more than your home is worth, your mortgage lender may approve a short sale to avoid foreclosure.
📌 Important: Short sales require lender approval, so this option takes longer.
5. The Risks of Waiting Too Long
Waiting too long to address unpaid property taxes can lead to serious consequences, including:
❌ Tax Foreclosure: The county can seize and auction your home.
❌ Tax Lien Sale: Investors may purchase your tax lien and take ownership.
❌ Worsening Debt: Late fees and interest continue to grow, making repayment harder.
The sooner you act, the more options you have!
Conclusion: Take Action Before It’s Too Late
If you’re behind on property taxes in Augusta, don’t wait until foreclosure is imminent. Selling your home is a viable option to settle your debt and walk away with cash in hand.
📌 Need a fast, fair, and stress-free sale? Martin Legacy Holdings specializes in helping homeowners sell quickly, even with unpaid taxes. Contact us today for a no-obligation cash offer!
FAQs About Selling a House With Unpaid Taxes
1. Can I sell my house if it has a tax lien?
Yes, but the lien must be paid off before or at closing.
2. What happens if I don’t pay my property taxes in Augusta?
Your home may be foreclosed and sold at a tax lien auction.
3. How long do I have before Augusta forecloses on my home?
This varies, but waiting too long increases risk.