View Active Lancaster County Listings
Opening bids, property photos, ARV estimates, and auction dates
Overview
Lancaster County conducts sheriff's sales of real estate under Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 3129, with online bidding hosted on the RealAuction platform at lancaster.pa.realforeclose.com. The opening bid is set by the plaintiff and generally reflects the judgment amount plus costs. Successful bidders must satisfy the Sheriff's deposit and payment terms posted for each sale.
Quick Reference
How to Bid at a Lancaster County Sheriff Sale
Follow these steps to participate in an upcoming Lancaster County auction:
Find upcoming listings
Browse Lancaster County sheriff sale listings on SheriffIQ or the county sheriff’s website. Check sale dates and property details.
Research the property
Run a title search through the Lancaster County Recorder of Deeds. Check property tax status, municipal liens, and IRS liens. Drive by the property to assess exterior condition.
Register to bid
Register with the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office before the sale. Bring valid photo ID and any required deposits.
Bid online
Join the online auction on sale day. Bidding is typically live with ascending bids.
Pay the deposit
If you win, the deposit (Per the Sheriff's posted terms for each sale) is due per county rules. Have your payment ready in the accepted format — typically cashier’s check or money order.
Pay the balance
The remaining balance is due Per the Sheriff's posted terms for each sale. Failure to pay typically results in forfeiture of your deposit and potential ban from future sales.
Receive your deed
After full payment, the Sheriff’s Deed is recorded and transferred to you. There is no redemption period.
Key Notes for Lancaster County Investors
All properties sold AS-IS — the Sheriff makes no warranty of title or condition.
A sheriff's sale divests most junior liens, but senior liens, municipal claims, and unpaid taxes may survive — always conduct a title search.
Sales may be stayed or postponed by bankruptcy filing, court order, or payment of the debt before the sale.
Browse Lancaster County Listings Now
See opening bids, estimated ARV, property photos, and equity spread for every active listing.
View Lancaster County ListingsFrequently Asked Questions
What deposit is required to bid in Lancaster County?
The deposit requirement is: Per the Sheriff's posted terms for each sale. The remaining balance is due: Per the Sheriff's posted terms for each sale. Payment is typically by cashier’s check or money order — confirm accepted payment methods with the county.
Are Lancaster County sheriff sales in person or online?
Lancaster County sheriff sales are conducted online: Online sheriff's sale (mortgage foreclosure). You can bid from your computer or phone without attending in person.
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 Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania has no post-sale redemption period for standard mortgage foreclosures. Once you pay in full and the deed is recorded, the property is yours. Philadelphia tax sales are the exception (9-month redemption).
What liens survive a Lancaster 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 Lancaster County sheriff sale listings?
SheriffIQ aggregates Lancaster County sheriff sale listings with opening bids, property photos, ARV estimates, and auction dates. You can also check the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office website directly.
Official Resources
Lancaster County Listings on SheriffIQ
Photos, opening bids, ARV, and equity spread