Santa Cruz County launches online tax lien auction platform with detailed bidding rules

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on April 30, 2025, where key discussions centered around the upcoming tax lien auction process. The meeting provided a detailed tutorial on how residents can participate in the auction through the online platform, RealAuction.com.

During the meeting, officials emphasized the importance of understanding the bidding rules and registration process. Participants were encouraged to visit the treasurer's website for access to the auction site and to familiarize themselves with the relevant Arizona statutes governing tax lien sales. Notably, the treasurer's office clarified that there are no guarantees of profit from purchasing tax liens, as property owners retain the right to redeem their liens at any time.

The auction is set to begin on January 24, with registration and deposit deadlines approaching on February 13. The auction will feature nine batches of parcels, totaling approximately $13 million in value, with bidding closing in 60-minute intervals. The first batch will close at 8 AM on February 13, and the last at 4 PM the same day.

Participants must register and make a deposit of 10% of their intended investment to bid. The meeting highlighted that payment for certificates will only be accepted via ACH, and bidders should be aware of the rules regarding simultaneous bidding.

The Board encouraged community members to utilize public computers available at local libraries or county offices to access the auction site. The meeting concluded with a reminder for potential bidders to prepare in advance to ensure a smooth bidding experience.