Learn how to buy property for $2.00. Yes, it’s possible if you know where to look. Follow along with today’s video, and you will learn an all-new way of buying cheap off-market property that you can flip for thousands of dollars in profit.
Most people think real estate investing requires thousands of dollars, but that’s not always the case. In certain counties across the U.S., tax-defaulted properties go unsold at auction and end up available for as little as $2. These properties—often vacant lots or abandoned structures—are sold by the county to get them back on the tax roll.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to start investing in real estate, this is one of the best-kept secrets. Below, we’ll break down how to find these deals, what to watch out for, and how you can turn a tiny investment into a big opportunity.
Why Do Counties Sell Properties for Dirt Cheap?
When property owners stop paying taxes, the county takes action to recover the lost revenue. The process usually follows these steps:
- The county places a tax lien on the property.
- If the taxes remain unpaid, the county sells the lien or the property at auction.
- If no one buys it at the auction, the county may offer it in a secondary sale for a fraction of the original cost.
At this stage, some properties end up with a minimum bid as low as $2 because counties want them back on the tax roll as quickly as possible.
Where to Find Properties for $2.00?
If you know where to look, these deals are happening right now. Here’s how to find them:
1. Search for County Auctions
- Look up tax lien and tax deed sales in your target area.
- Search for terms like “Commissioner Sale” or “Over-the-Counter Tax Deeds.”
- Check websites like Bid4Assets, GovDeals, or your local county tax collector’s site.
2. Look for Unsold Properties
- Many counties list properties that did not sell in the first auction.
- Some counties allow investors to buy directly from their website with no bidding.
3. Verify the Property Before Buying
- Use Zillow, Google Maps, and GIS maps to check the location.
- Look for road access and surrounding property values.
4. Make Your Purchase
- Many counties accept credit card payments, wire transfers, or cashier’s checks.
- In some cases, you’ll need to visit the county office or register for an online auction.
Example: A Property for $2.00 in Indiana
A recent Commissioner Sale in Indiana listed multiple properties with a starting bid of $2. One example was a 5,500 sq. ft. residential lot that sold for just $2.
- A similar lot nearby sold for $7,500.
- The investor paid with a credit card, covering a small transfer fee.
- They could sell to a neighbor, hold for appreciation, or flip it online.
Deals like this happen every year, but they require some research and quick action.
Pros and Cons of Buying Government-Seized Properties
Pros:
Extremely low cost – A few dollars can get you into real estate investing.
No mortgage needed – Many purchases can be made with cash or a credit card.
Flexibility – You can flip the land, lease it, or sell it to a neighbor.
Cons:
Some properties may be landlocked – No road access means limited use.
Title issues may need clearing – Some counties provide clear titles, but others don’t.
Not all counties offer these deals – You have to search to find the right location.
How to Get Property for $2.00 Today
- Research county auctions – Search online for tax lien or tax deed sales in your state.
- Check for leftover properties – Look for “surplus property” or “commissioner sales.”
- Verify the property – Make sure it has access, no major legal issues, and potential value.
- Make your purchase – Buy the property and decide whether to sell, lease, or hold.
Can I buy these properties online?
Yes. Many tax auctions and over-the-counter sales are available online.
What if the property has a lien?
Some counties remove all liens before selling. Always check the property details before buying.
How do I sell the property after I buy it?
You can list it on Zillow, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist or sell it to a nearby homeowner.
Buying government-seized property for $2.00s is a real opportunity for new and experienced investors. Whether you want to flip land, hold it for future value, or sell it for a quick profit, tax deed and commissioner sales offer a low-risk entry into real estate.
The key is knowing where to look and doing your homework before buying. With the right strategy, a small investment can turn into thousands of dollars in profit.
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