Merced County, California Government Auctions

California is a tax deed state

California counties sell tax-defaulted property outright at tax collector auctions, most of them held online, after the parcel has been delinquent for five years. There are no tax lien certificate sales in California.

Redemption period

The owner's right to redeem ends at the close of business the day before the sale; after the auction there is no redemption, although the sale may be challenged for a limited period (commonly one year).

Interest or penalty

Not applicable — buyers take the deed at auction, and the county keeps the redemption penalties paid by owners beforehand.