Property Auctions

Delinquent Tax + Taxpayer Assistant

It is the responsibility of the County Treasurer to collect delinquent real property taxes. Functions associated with delinquent taxes include writing receipts, processing tax roll adjustments to prior year tax rolls (for up to 20 years), processing bankruptcy claims, and managing forfeiture and foreclosure process, and being the Foreclosing Unit of Government.

Beginning March 1st of each year, the County Treasurer purchases delinquent real property taxes from the local units utilizing the cash in the delinquent tax revolving fund or may opt to borrow. We collect payments on the delinquent parcels for a period of not less than 24 months. During that time, we follow an extensive State mandated notification process which includes regular postal mail, certified mail, personal service (visit/hand deliver) to the property and publication in the in the local newspaper. We file a petition for foreclosure with the 51st Circuit Court. If payment is not received by the 3rd year of assessment, we foreclose on the parcel and attempt to sell the parcel at auction. Prior to the auction, per the General Property Tax Act, 211.78m, the State is granted the right of first refusal to purchase any foreclosed parcels at the greater of the minimum bid or its fair market value. If the State elects not to purchase, then the local unit has the right to purchase at minimum bid, or if a claim was filed, then at fair market value. If the local unit does not exercise their right, then the County/Land Bank may purchase at minimum bid, or if a claim was filed, at fair market value.

County Treasurer’s Office works with taxpayers to prevent foreclosures. One of the prevention methods provided by the treasurer’s office is offering a Payment Agreement, which gives those taxpayers that have had a unusual circumstance in their life time to set up a payment plan to keep them from losing their property. In addition to Payment Agreements, we also direct taxpayers to True North Community Services, Love Inc, Michigan Department of Health & Human Services, and Veteran’s Affairs, if applicable. We enlighten the taxpayer on Michigan Homestead Property tax credit by filing their Michigan tax return and poverty exemption by inquiring with their township.

Property Tax Foreclosure Auctions

The tax-foreclosed property auctions for the 2022 cycle is active. The Oceana County Tax Sale took place online at Title Check, LLC on September 8, 2022.  Please visit the Title Check website periodically regarding future auction updates.

By law, tax-foreclosed property must be sold at public auction. Auctions are held online with Title Check, LLC.

Please read all Rules and Regulations carefully and thoroughly. All properties are sold as is and where is; purchasers release the Treasurer from all liability.

Former Property Owners or Interest Holders

The Michigan Legislature passed MCL 211.78t for those who hold title or equity interest in a property at the time of foreclosure may file a claim for remaining proceeds, if any, after sale or transfer of the property.  Claiming potential remaining proceeds begins with filing form 5743 Notice of Intention to Claim Interest in Foreclosure Sale Proceeds with the County Treasurer by July 1st immediately following the foreclosure date.  Those who wish to consult with an attorney about your ability to claim remaining proceeds under MCL 211.78t may go to the State Bar of Michigan’s legal resource and referral website or may call 800-968-0738 for assistance in finding private legal counsel.