Tax sales of properties are last resort for counties | Houston & Peach | Macon.com

WARNER ROBINS — This is not a good time of year for Houston County property owners who are behind on paying their taxes.

Last week, the county held its first public auction of the year for properties with unpaid taxes, and those will continue monthly through at least August. Generally that step isn’t taken until people are three years behind, Tax Commissioner Mark Kushinka said.

He personally places every tax sale sign at the properties, partly because he wants to see what he is selling but also because he hopes to meet with the owner and find out if the sale can be avoided.

“What I’m trying to find out is why you haven’t paid it,” Kushinka said. “A lot of them are scared to talk to me in the office, but they don’t mind talking to you on their own turf.”

If people seem to be making a good-faith effort, they can put off a tax sale if they can just pay up the first year owed on the taxes.

Bibb County is a little less lenient. Tax Commissioner Thomas Tedders said he generally waits two years before pursuing a tax sale, although it can be only one year if a large amount is owed.

via Tax sales of properties are last resort for counties | Houston & Peach | Macon.com.