The Michigan online tax deed sales are open. These sales are conducted as live auctions, but you can also bid online. Property information, along with pictures for each parcel are posted online. Some counties even give very good descriptions of the properties including whether it’s occupied or vacant and condition of the property.

Tax sales start now (July 31) and take place from the end of July through September 11. You can find a calendar with the county sales listed on www.tax-sale.info. You’ll also find all the information you need for bidding, whether in person, or online. It’s easy to register to bid online. You can register free on the site and then you will need to use a credit card to put up a deposit in order to bid. Your card will not be charged unless you win a bid and you’re able to view the properties in the sale even if you don’t enter a deposit.

What you need to remember if you’re bidding at this sale for the first time is that many of these properties have been vacant for a long time before they’re sold in a tax sale. They are distressed properties. Some of them have been trashed by the former occupants. And if you win a bid on a property that is occupied, it’s up to you to evict the occupants! Even if the house looks like it’s in good shape, there’s only so much you can tell from pictures. If the house has gone through a winter unoccupied, it most likely has had water pipes break and will need a lot of plumbing repair and a new water heater.

You’ll also want to be particular about where you buy. There are hot and cold markets in Michigan. Some markets are very hot, and may be very competitive. Cold markets will be less competitive, but property will be tougher to sell there. So check out the areas before you bid!

If you need help investing in Michigan, and want some hand-holding through purchasing your first tax deeds there, we have very affordable coaching programs to help. Our “Get Profitable Tax Liens” Laser Coaching give you unlimited access to me for an entire year for only $1997. Go to www.GetProfitableTaxLiens.com to find out more.