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Redemption after a Georgia tax sale: the basics
The former owner can usually redeem for 12 months by paying the price plus a 20% premium; then the buyer can serve a barment notice.
After a Georgia tax sale, the former owner (and others with an interest in the property) can usually redeem it: pay the buyer back and keep the property.
The short version
- 12 months. The right to redeem runs at least 12 months from the sale (O.C.G.A. § 48-4-40).
- Premium. Redeeming in the first year costs the sale price plus a 20% premium, plus taxes the buyer paid after the sale; the premium rises by 10% for each additional year or part of a year (§ 48-4-42).
- Barment. After 12 months the tax deed holder can serve a notice that ends the right to redeem on a date at least 30 days after service (§ 48-4-45).
- Prescription. If no notice is served, the title ripens four years after the deed is recorded (§ 48-4-48).
The redemption guide walks through each step and has a calculator. Money left over after a sale is covered in excess funds.
This is a general summary of Georgia law, not legal advice. Statutes change and every property has its own facts; talk to a Georgia attorney before bidding, redeeming or claiming funds.
Quick answers
- How long does an owner have to redeem in Georgia?
- At least 12 months after the tax sale, and until a valid barment notice's deadline passes or the title ripens by prescription.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. It is a general summary. Talk to a Georgia attorney about a specific property.
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