Investments In Tax Liens Can Definitely Pay Off For Some Traders

By Lonnie Saling


Tax lien investing can be a very lucrative investment option for some traders when careful consideration and the right investigation is performed. Real-estate property owners must pay property taxes to the nation or other municipality in many areas, and if these taxes aren't paid then the municipal agency or entity can place a tax lien against the property to recover this money. In these cases a tax lien is issued against the real estate and this lien is then auctioned off to interested investors.

Traders who purchase tax lien certificates may experience 1 of 2 final results. If the home owner pays off the tax lien and the accrued interest then the lien is removed and the investor has made a return on the investment that can range from 10% or less up to 50% in some cases. If the owner of the property does not pay off the lien and relevant interest and other expenses then the investor will end up owning the property free and clear, usually for a very small amount of money when compared to the property's value.

People who choose to participate in tax lien investing may have several motivations. The return presented with this type of investment can be substantial in some instances, and there have been statements of people getting title to properties worth $100,000 or more for just pennies on the dollar as far as the cost and value are concerned.

Not all properties are perfect for investing in tax lien certificates, so it is important to use due diligence and find out everything possible about a real estate prior to bidding on any tax lien certificate. In most instances the property owner has fallen on hardships and has gotten behind in the tax obligations, but they usually don't want to lose the home. These owners will usually pay off the tax lien as soon as possible. In these situations the trader may leave with a really generous return of investment.

This kind of investment works well for most investors but may not be suitable for everyone. Each case is different, and every investor should analyze the desired goals before making any final decision regarding the appropriate investment vehicles.




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