Delinquent property taxes are a common issue faced by many property owners in West Virginia. When property taxes are not paid, the local county government can sell the property at a tax sale to recover the unpaid taxes. In this article, we will discuss delinquent property tax records in West Virginia, including the unique aspects of the state’s system.

In West Virginia, property taxes are assessed and collected at the county level. Each county has its own tax sale process and procedures for handling delinquent taxes. Property owners in West Virginia have until October 1st to pay their property taxes. If they do not pay by that date, interest begins to accrue on the unpaid balance.

The first step in the delinquent property tax process in West Virginia is the tax lien sale. In this type of sale, the county government sells the delinquent tax lien to an investor at a public auction. The investor pays the delinquent tax amount, plus interest and any other fees. In exchange, the investor receives a lien on the property, which gives them the right to collect the unpaid taxes from the property owner. The investor also earns interest on the delinquent tax amount.

The redemption period in West Virginia is one year from the date of the tax lien sale. During this time, the property owner has the opportunity to pay the delinquent taxes plus interest and fees to redeem the property. If the property owner does not redeem the property within the one-year redemption period, the tax lien holder can foreclose on the property.

One unique aspect of the West Virginia tax sale process is that it allows for the sale of tax deeds in addition to tax liens. In a tax deed sale, the county government sells the entire property to an investor, rather than just the delinquent tax lien. The investor takes possession of the property immediately and becomes the new owner, subject to any existing liens or encumbrances on the property.

Another unique aspect of the West Virginia tax sale process is the use of online auctions. Many counties in West Virginia now conduct their tax lien and tax deed sales online, allowing investors from anywhere in the world to participate in the auctions. This has increased competition and can result in higher prices paid for delinquent tax liens and deeds.

It’s important to note that delinquent property taxes can have serious consequences for property owners in West Virginia. If taxes go unpaid for an extended period of time, the property can be sold at a tax sale, and the owner can lose their property. Additionally, unpaid property taxes can result in penalties, interest, and legal fees.

To avoid delinquent property taxes in West Virginia, property owners should make sure to pay their property taxes on time each year. If they are unable to pay, they should contact their county tax office to see if they can set up a payment plan or negotiate a settlement. It’s also a good idea to stay up-to-date on the local tax sale process and attend any tax sale auctions to learn more about the process and potential investment opportunities.

In conclusion, delinquent property taxes can be a serious issue for property owners in West Virginia. The state’s unique tax sale process, which includes tax lien and tax deed sales, as well as online auctions, provides opportunities for investors to purchase delinquent tax liens and deeds. Property owners can avoid delinquent property taxes by paying their taxes on time or working with their county tax office to set up payment plans or settlements.