Top 3 Questions About Michigan Tax Deed Sales – by Saen Higgins

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Few people know how great Michigan is as a tax deed state. It’s just so accessible to investors not only locally but those across the country as well. Most auctions are held simultaneously both live and online through Tax-Sale.Info. I would go so far as to say that Michigan rivals Florida on ease of auction participation and property research. The folks behind the Tax-Sale.Info website even have a Facebook page with posts consisting of their favorite tax deed properties available for sale!

Below I have put together a list of our most frequently asked questions. We’ve been in the business for so long it took no time at all for my partner, Tony Martinez, and I to organize this. Don’t forget to complete your due diligence on the properties, as well as visit their auction website for even more valuable information.

• 1. What is an SEV?
  SEV stands for “State Equalized Value.” You will likely see this figure on Michigan property cards; it represents 50% of the assessed value. Remember, assessed value is a rough estimate and should not be used as the current fair market value. Be sure to look at recent sales in the area of similar homes for a better representation.

• 2. What liens survive the sale?
  Michigan is unique in that you have to keep your eye out for a specific type of lien. According to Tax-Sale.Info, most if not all liens should be extinguished. However, the Department of Environmental Quality liens survive the sale, be sure to do a thorough records search prior to the sale, or order title reports on your prospective investment properties. There are times where you need to spend a buck to make a buck in this business, or any business for that matter.

• 3. Do I take possession right away?
  In Michigan, you can take possession right away. If vacant, you can secure the property and take measures to protect it. Getting insurance is also an excellent idea. In any state, including Michigan, you should wait to make any significant investment in the property until you receive the deed. Note that in many regions you can only take possession once you have the deed in hand, at times there is waiting period before the deed is recorded.

With all of the above said, I’ll leave you with a friendly reminder...complete your due diligence! You may be tired of hearing that, but it’s critical that you do. Don’t forget to perform records searches on investment properties, as well as ‘getting eyes on the property’ (get photos or taking a look yourself). Work hard and have fun.

Sincerely,
Saen Higgins

Saen Higgins is the Co-Founder of US Tax Lien Association. He is one of the world’s foremost authorities on the subject of investing in Tax Lien Certificates and Tax Foreclosed Properties. He has been training and speaking internationally for over 25 years. Saen is passionate about sharing his philosophies on real estate investment and creating financial freedom. His extensive knowledge in the field of self-directed retirement accounts has changed the quality of life for thousands and the way they invest. Saen’s devotion to helping people creates true financial independence and is only matched by his business partner, Tony Martinez.