Property taxes are easy to fall behind on, especially on an inherited house, a vacant lot or a property where the mortgage was paid off (so there's no escrow account). In Florida, unpaid taxes don't just go away. They can eventually lead to the loss of the property.
How the Florida Process Generally Works
- Taxes become delinquent. Florida property taxes are generally due by March 31 and become delinquent on April 1.
- Tax certificates are sold. If the taxes remain unpaid, the county Tax Collector sells a tax certificate on the property, usually around June. The certificate holder is essentially paying your taxes and earning interest. You still own the home, but the debt keeps growing.
- Tax deed application. If the certificate isn't redeemed, the holder can generally apply for a tax deed after two years.
- Tax deed sale. The Clerk of Court can then schedule the property for a public tax deed sale. If the property sells, the owner can lose it, although there may be surplus funds the former owner can claim.
The owner can generally redeem by paying the taxes, interest and fees before the tax deed is issued. Check with the Lake County Tax Collector for your exact amounts.
Options If You Are Behind
- Pay or set up payment with the Tax Collector, if your situation allows.
- Check for exemptions you may have missed, such as homestead or senior exemptions, through the Lake County Property Appraiser.
- Sell the property and pay the back taxes at closing. The title company pays them from your proceeds, and you keep the rest.
How We Can Help
We regularly buy Lake County properties with delinquent taxes, tax certificates or pending tax deed applications. We can move quickly, usually with a no-obligation offer within 72 hours, so you can sell before a tax deed sale and keep your equity. Call (352) 508-7373.
General information only. Verify dates and amounts with the Lake County Tax Collector and Clerk of Court.