If you’re learning how to read county tax lists, the secret is simple: don’t try to evaluate everything. Start by filtering the list down to a manageable shortlist, then review only the fields that actually affect value, risk, and your bidding strategy.
You download the county tax list. 847 properties. Your eyes glaze over by line 23.
Most beginners see that massive spreadsheet and either give up or start bidding randomly. Neither works.
Here's how to scan a tax list like a pro in under an hour.
Step 1: Filter First, Read Later
Don't read top to bottom. Set up your personal filters to eliminate junk immediately:
- Property type: Residential only (skip vacant land and commercial).
- Lien amount: $1,500-$15,000 (sweet spot).
- Property value: At least 2x the lien amount (ideally 3x+).
- Location: Zip codes you've researched.
One pass? You just cut 847 properties down to 60-80 worth looking at.
Step 2: Create Your “Heck No” List
Skip these at any price:
- Mobile homes (unless it includes the land).
- Properties with HOA super-priority liens.
- Flood zones (check FEMA maps).
- Environmental red flags (former gas stations, dry cleaners).
- Lien amount over 60% of assessed value.
Real life: Derek bought a $4,800 lien on a condo with a $38,000 HOA lien hiding behind it. Now he has a “hell no” checklist.
Step 3: Build “Maybe” and “Strong Yes” Piles
“Strong Yes” Pile:
- Lien-to-value under 40%
- Single-family home in stable neighborhood
- County has 75%+ redemption history
Focus 80% of your research time here. These are your moneymakers.
Step 4: Use Google Maps Like a Detective
For every “Strong Yes” property, spend three minutes:
- Street View: Maintained or abandoned?
- Satellite View: Check roof, yard, neighboring homes.
- Nearby comps: Recent sales?
This visual sweep tells you more than any spreadsheet.
Step 5: Track Everything Simply
Create a one-page tracker:
- Property address
- Lien amount
- Assessed value
- Your max bid
- Quick notes
The 60-Minute System
Minute 0-10: Download, apply filters.
Minute 10-20: Flag “heck no” properties.
Minute 20-40: Sort into piles.
Minute 40-60: Google Maps top 10-15 prospects.
You just turned 847 listings into 10 solid opportunities.
Stop trying to analyze everything. Start filtering ruthlessly, researching strategically, bidding confidently.
Behind every property line is a potential payday.
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial or investment advice. Real estate investing carries risks, and individual results will vary. Always consult with your team of professionals before making investment decisions. The authors and distributors of this material are not liable for any losses or damages that may occur as a result of relying on this information.
