Distressed Owners
I Got a Tax Deed Notice in Florida: What Do I Do First?
By Yogi Ganeshram · 10/31/2026
First, do not ignore it, and do not panic. A notice means a process has started, not that the house is gone. Here is what to do in the first week.
Step 1: Read what kind of notice it is
- A delinquent tax or tax certificate notice from the tax collector. Taxes are unpaid, and you usually still have time.
- A notice of tax deed application or sale from the clerk. A sale process is underway. Check the sale date.
Step 2: Get three facts
- The total needed to clear the taxes today.
- The sale date, if one is set.
- Whether other liens exist, like a mortgage, HOA, or code lien.
Step 3: Decide your path
- Pay it. If you can, this ends the process.
- Sell before the auction. If you cannot pay or do not want the house.
- Get legal advice. If there are heirs, a probate case, a divorce, or title questions.
Things not to do
- Do not ignore the mail. Deadlines in these cases are short.
- Do not sign anything from someone who contacts you about the notice without reading it and having an attorney review it. Offers often show up as soon as a case is filed.
- Do not assume you can pay later. Redemption has a hard cutoff.
What to do this week
Call your county tax collector for the payoff and your county clerk for the sale date. If you want a second set of eyes, send me the notice and the address. I will tell you straight whether paying or selling looks better.
Disclosure: I am a licensed REALTOR with eXp Realty, and I also invest in homes through my own company. If I am ever the buyer, I will tell you in writing before you decide.
Common questions
About Yogi
Yogi Ganeshram, eXp Realty licensed REALTOR, 23+ years, 500+ homes sold, 200+ flips, 400+ short sales with deficiency waivers secured
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This article is general education, not legal or tax advice. Talk to a licensed Florida attorney or tax professional about your situation.
Yoganand Ganeshram PA · Licensed Florida Real Estate Agent — SL 3131685 · eXp Realty in Florida · Equal Housing Opportunity.