HomeLearnDeKalb County, GA
County GuideGeorgiaUpdated March 2026

DeKalb County Sheriff Sale Listings

Everything you need to bid on foreclosure properties in the Atlanta east side area. Auction rules, deposit requirements, and what to watch out for.

DeKalb County, Georgia
Atlanta east side
First Tuesday, generally April-December

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Opening bids, property photos, ARV estimates, and auction dates

Overview

DeKalb County (Decatur) conducts tax sales on the courthouse steps on the first Tuesday of scheduled months (generally April through December), managed by the Tax Commissioner. Mortgage foreclosures are handled separately by lenders' attorneys. Advance pre-registration through the Tax Sale Pre-Registration Portal is required for tax sale participation.

Quick Reference

Tax Sale AuthorityDeKalb County Tax Commissioner
Sale LocationCourthouse steps, 556 N. McDonough St., Decatur
Tax Sale ScheduleFirst Tuesday, generally April-December
Check-In9:00 AM; sales begin at 12:00 PM or sooner
RegistrationRequired via dekalbtax.org portal (advance)
Opening BidTotal taxes + costs
PaymentCertified funds at time of sale
Tax Deed TypeDefeasible title
Redemption Period12 months from sale date
AdvertisingThe Champion Newspaper for 4 weeks

How to Bid at a DeKalb County Sheriff Sale

Follow these steps to participate in an upcoming DeKalb County auction:

1

Find upcoming listings

Browse DeKalb County sheriff sale listings on SheriffIQ or the county sheriff’s website. Check sale dates and property details.

2

Research the property

Run a title search through the DeKalb County Recorder of Deeds. Check property tax status, municipal liens, and IRS liens. Drive by the property to assess exterior condition.

3

Register to bid

Required via dekalbtax.org portal (advance). Complete registration before the deadline to receive your bidder credentials.

4

Attend and bid

Attend the auction at the designated location on sale day. Bidding is live, verbal, and ascending.

5

Pay the deposit

If you win, the deposit (the required deposit) is due per county rules. Have your payment ready in the accepted format — typically cashier’s check or money order.

6

Pay the balance

The remaining balance is due Certified funds at time of sale. Failure to pay typically results in forfeiture of your deposit and potential ban from future sales.

7

Receive your deed

After full payment, the Sheriff’s Deed is recorded and transferred to you.

Key Notes for DeKalb County Investors

Tax sale pre-registration is required through the online portal at dekalbtax.org before the sale date.

A tax deed conveys defeasible title only; full ownership requires the 12-month redemption period to elapse and proper barment procedures.

Federal liens (IRS, HUD, DOJ) are not extinguished by Georgia non-judicial tax sales; a full title search is essential.

The purchaser receives no rights to possession, rents, or profits during the 12-month redemption period.

The Tax Commissioner strongly encourages buyers to consult a qualified real estate attorney before participating.

Browse DeKalb County Listings Now

See opening bids, estimated ARV, property photos, and equity spread for every active listing.

View DeKalb County Listings

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for a DeKalb County sheriff sale?

Required via dekalbtax.org portal (advance). Check the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office website or SheriffIQ for current requirements and upcoming sale dates.

Can I inspect a property before bidding?

No. Sheriff sale properties are sold AS-IS. The Sheriff’s Office cannot provide property access or keys. Drive by to assess exterior condition and neighborhood, but interior inspections are not available before the auction.

Is there a redemption period in Georgia?

Georgia mortgage foreclosure sales have no redemption period. However, tax sales carry a 12-month redemption period where the former owner can reclaim the property by paying the sale price plus a premium.

What liens survive a DeKalb County sheriff sale?

Property tax arrears, municipal liens (water, sewer, code violations), and IRS federal tax liens typically survive a sheriff sale. Junior mortgages and judgment liens are usually extinguished if properly named in the foreclosure suit. Always run a comprehensive title search before bidding.

Where can I find DeKalb County sheriff sale listings?

SheriffIQ aggregates DeKalb County sheriff sale listings with opening bids, property photos, ARV estimates, and auction dates. You can also check the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office website directly.

Official Resources

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