Behind on Property Taxes in Orlando? Sell Your House and Avoid Losing It to a Tax Sale

Missing a mortgage payment is stressful. But many Orlando homeowners don’t realize that falling behind on property taxes can be just as dangerous — and can ultimately result in losing your home without ever going through a traditional foreclosure. If you owe back property taxes in Orange, Osceola, or Seminole County, here’s what you need to know — and what you can do about it right now.

How Florida’s Property Tax System Works

In Florida, property taxes are due by March 31st of each year. If you miss that deadline, your taxes become delinquent and your county begins charging interest and fees. After a period of delinquency, a tax certificate is issued and eventually sold at a public auction to investors who then collect interest on your unpaid balance.

If the debt is not repaid within two years of the tax certificate sale, the certificate holder can apply for a tax deed — meaning the county schedules your home for a public auction to recover the debt. At that point, you could lose your property entirely, often for far less than it is worth.

Signs You May Be Heading Toward a Tax Deed Sale

You’ve received a notice of delinquency from Orange, Osceola, or Seminole County. You’ve received correspondence from a tax certificate holder. You’ve been notified of a pending tax deed application. You’re unsure how much you owe or whether a certificate has already been purchased.

If any of these apply to you, time is critical.

Selling Your Home Is Often the Best Way Out

Many Orlando homeowners who are behind on property taxes don’t realize their home likely has significant equity — and that equity can be used to settle the debt and put cash in their pocket. Selling to a cash buyer like Homeinc is often the fastest and most financially advantageous path forward.

You Don’t Need to Make Repairs

Homeinc buys Orlando homes as-is. Whether your property is in great shape or needs significant work, we’ll make you a fair cash offer.

We Close Fast — Before a Tax Sale

We can close in as little as 7 days. If a tax deed auction has been scheduled, we work urgently to get you across the finish line before that date.

We Handle the Delinquent Taxes at Closing

Any unpaid property taxes, tax certificates, and associated fees are paid directly from the proceeds at closing. You don’t need to find the money upfront.

Orlando Neighborhoods We Serve

Homeinc purchases homes throughout the greater Orlando metro, including Orlando, Kissimmee, Sanford, Altamonte Springs, Apopka, Ocoee, Winter Garden, and surrounding communities. No matter where your property is located, we want to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell my house if it has delinquent taxes?

Yes. Back taxes are a lien on the property and are paid off at closing out of the sale proceeds. You do not need to pay them before selling.

What if I also have a mortgage?

Both your mortgage and your delinquent taxes will be paid at closing. You receive whatever equity remains after those obligations are satisfied.

How do I find out exactly what I owe?

Contact the Orange County Tax Collector’s office or visit their website to look up your current delinquent balance. We can also help you understand what we find during our property assessment process.

Don’t Let the County Take What’s Yours

You’ve built equity in your Orlando home. Don’t let a tax debt take it from you. Homeinc can move fast, pay off the debt at closing, and get you real money in your hands — often within a week. Call us today before the situation gets worse.

Ready to Get Your Free Cash Offer?

Ready to sell? Call us at (888) 850-2636 or visit homeinc.com/get-an-offer to request a no-obligation cash offer today.