Tax Forfeiture
The Douglas County Auditor-Treasurer's Office administers the disposition of tax forfeited lands. Tax forfeited parcels are properties that after 3 years of delinquent status, are awarded to the state due to non-payment of real estate taxes. Title to the land and buildings are forfeited and now vested in the State of Minnesota. Douglas County manages these properties in trust for the State. According to Minnesota State law, Newly forfeited properties are to be offered up for sale by public auction.
All property is sold 'As Is' and may not conform to local building and zoning ordinances. Douglas County makes no warranty that the land is suitable for building. All sales are final, and no refunds or exchanges are permitted.
We highly recommend that you thoroughly research tax forfeited parcels before purchasing. Most liens and mortgages, except Federal and State Tax Liens, are canceled at the time of forfeiture and it is responsibility of the purchaser to verify this information. For specific legal issues you may want to consult an attorney.
Tax forfeited parcels will first be held for for online public auction with PUBLIC SURPLUS. Per MN Statute, properties must first be offered at an Estimated Market Value Sale, then if unsold followed by a Minimum Bid Sale (minimum bid being the total of unpaid taxes and cost associated with the forfeiture). Any remaining properties will be reviewed and made available to purchase over the counter at the County Auditor Treasurer's Office.
Link to PUBLIC SURPLUS for land sales.
CURRENT SALES
Notice of Online Tax Forfeited Land Sale – #25-0728
REAL ESTATE DISCLOSURES
Tax Forfeited Land Sale Terms & Conditions
Tax Forfeited Land Sale Standard Disclosure
OVER THE COUNTER PROPERTY AVAILABLE
Tax Forfeiture Surplus
The
FORMER OWNER AND OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES MAY BE ENTITLED TO THE SURPLUS PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF TAX FORFEITED LAND if the sale price of the property at a public auction exceeds the amount of the delinquent taxes, special assessments, penalties, interest, and costs. A Notice of Surplus and Claim Form will be mailed to the former owner and other interested parties of record. There is a six-month period following the sale to submit the claim. Approved claims will be paid after six-month claims period expires.
Tax Forfeiture Surplus Notice and Claim Form
Tax Forfeiture Surplus Notice
Statement of Claim Form