Real property with taxes that are three (3) or more years’ delinquent is subject to foreclosure. To redeem the property after foreclosure proceedings begin, all years’ taxes, interest, penalties, and foreclosure costs must be paid (RCW 84.64).
The only way to purchase a property from foreclosure is to attend the annual auction, for 2012 it's been scheduled for February 3, 2012. A minimum bid will be solicited for each property. This bid must include all taxes, interest, penalties, and foreclosure costs. The auction is verbal, and full payment is due at the time of the successful bid. Acceptable forms of payment are cash, a cashier's check or money order made out to "Clark County Treasurer". For further information, see the Real Property Auction Process.
The successful bidder will receive a Treasurer’s Deed without any expressed or implied warranty. Clark County does not warrant any property suitable for any use, nor do they make any claims regarding easements, covenants, or restrictions. All parcels are sold “as is” and all sales are final. Potential purchasers should seek the advice of a real estate attorney if additional information is needed.
Clark County does not issue Tax Lien Certificates, as Washington State is not a Tax Lien state.
The foreclosure sales are usually held each year on the first Friday in February (Exact date will be determined in the 4th quarter).
Can prior owners redeem their property after foreclosure?
Prior owners have no rights to the property after foreclosure unless they were a minor or legally incompetent. Minors and legal incompetents have the right to redeem anytime within three years from the date of the foreclosure sale. They redeem the property by paying the sales price plus interest on the tax amount. Any improvements made by the new owner would also be reimbursed (RCW 84.64.070).
What happens to all of the property liens?
Generally, all liens on foreclosed property are extinguished. However, the County can make no guarantees that the prior lien holders will honor this extinguishments. IRS liens are usually also extinguished, but they are subject to a 120-day redemption period. If prior lien holders attempt to collect on their liens after the property has been foreclosed on, it is entirely up to the new owner to defend against these claims.
