Tax Lien & Deed Quick Start Secrets (VIDEO)

Tax Lien & Deed Quick‑Start Guide

Do you want to start with tax lien or tax deed investing? In this quick-start video, my business partner Cory explains why you need to take action instead of just collecting information, and he gives you a simple plan to begin.

Many people read books and watch videos about this topic, but very few take the next step.

Stop Reading, Start Doing

If you have studied tax lien or tax deed investing but still feel stuck, you are not alone. I believe the biggest thing you can do is take action. Beginners often fear making mistakes, but waiting until you know everything is a bigger mistake. Cory makes the same point: you have to “get out there and move,” even if you do not yet have every answer. You will figure things out along the way.

Steps to Get Started

Write down where you live and your county
The first step is simple. Grab a pen and paper and write down your state and county. If you don’t know your county, look it up online. Your county determines what kind of tax sale you will attend because some states sell tax liens while others sell tax deeds.
Research your county’s tax sale
Search online for your county’s tax lien or tax deed sale using phrases like “Pinellas County tax lien sale”.
Using Google to find the sale date and notes that each county has its own schedule. Many counties hold auctions once a year, while others hold them monthly.
Mark the sale date on your calendar and set a reminder a month ahead so you have time to prepare.
Attend an auction even if you don’t bid
It’s okay if you’re not ready to bid at your first auction. You can just watch and learn, see how others bid, what properties sell for, and note the rules or fees. Since some auctions happen only once a year, plan ahead or check nearby counties. Watching first helps you build confidence.
Get the list of properties and do your homework
Once you know when the auction happens, download or request the tax sale list from the county. This list shows all properties available at the auction. You should review it carefully and decide which properties fit your budget and investment goals. Consider:

Budget: Know how much money you can spend.

Property type: Decide whether you want vacant land, single‑family homes, or commercial property.

Due diligence: Use the county’s GIS parcel viewer and assessor websites to look up each property, see its location, and check for issues like access or zoning. Visit properties in person if possible.

By comparing the winning bids with your own calculations, you will learn whether other buyers leave enough room for profit. This helps you avoid bad deals.
Keep the momentum
Many beginners feel that they must know everything before taking the first step. Remember, this mindset can stop you from ever getting started. There will always be more to learn, but the only way to gain real experience is by participating. Even if you start with a practice sale or a small purchase, you will learn valuable lessons and build confidence. There is no perfect time to begin; the best time is today.

Tax Lien and Deed FAQs

What is a tax lien?

A tax lien happens when property taxes aren’t paid. An investor pays the taxes, earns interest, and if the owner doesn’t pay back, the investor can take the property.

What is a tax deed?

A tax deed sale gives full ownership of a property. The deed is auctioned to the highest bidder, who becomes the new owner after a short wait. There’s usually no redemption period, but the buyer takes on risks like repairs or title problems.

Do I need a lot of money to start?

No. Many tax liens start at a few hundred dollars, and some tax deeds sell for a few thousand. We always remind new investors to start with what they can afford. As you gain experience, you can invest in larger deals. Always set a budget and stick to it.

How do I find tax sale auctions?

Use online search tools or call your county or parish tax collector. Search for “[your county] tax lien sale” or “tax deed auction.” Write down the dates and set calendar reminders.

Can I participate in tax sales online?

Many counties now offer online auctions. This can be helpful if you live far from the sale or want to invest in multiple states. Check with the county to see whether online bidding is available and register in advance.

About me and Tax Lien School

I am an investor with more than two decades of experience in tax liens and tax deeds. I founded Tax Lien School to teach beginners how to buy tax deeds up to 90 % off and earn up to 36 % return on investment. My YouTube channel has over 98,000 subscribers and more than 3,600 videos that cover every aspect of tax lien and deed investing. I believe the best time to start investing was 20 years ago, and the second‑best time is today.

Getting started in tax lien and tax deed investing does not require perfect knowledge.

This is a common thing, yet very important because a lot of people miss this part and end up procrastinating, which practically destroys their chances of success. Avoid letting that stop you.

-Dustin