Andrew asked:
I’d like to know about properties that have been fully paid for and owned by the owner free and clear, so no mortgages. And then become delinquent only because the owner is not paying their property taxes.
I’d like to know about properties that have been fully paid for and owned by the owner free and clear, so no mortgages. And then become delinquent only because the owner is not paying their property taxes.
1. How prevalent is this compared to all other types of properties that are foreclosed and auctioned?
2. What types of reasons does this occur that the owner is not or cannot pay their property taxes when they already were able to pay off their mortgage?
3. Does the delinquent homeowner’s debt mostly include the property taxes?
not often. most mortgage companies will pay the tax bill before that occurs.
may happen in urban areas where property is almost worthless (Detroit)
Very very few.
Same reason anyone fails to pay a bill. Generally taxes were escrowed with the mortgage; when the mortgage was paid off, they just didn’t pick up the responsibility and start paying them.
Interest and penalty strip out the principal fast when it does happen.
(I’ve seen property in some counties that went 20 years without paying on the taxes…..oy)