Don't let the county take the house for back taxes.
If tax foreclosure notices are showing up, you have more time — and more options — than the letters make it feel like. Here's how the process actually works, what to try first, and where we fit in if selling ends up being the right move.
Tell us about the house
We'll call you back — usually the same day.
Rather talk? Call or text (541) 507-8582
The process
How Oregon tax foreclosure actually works
- Property taxes unpaid for three years put the house on the county's foreclosure list.
- The county then takes a court judgment. After that, you have a two-year redemption period — you keep possession of the house during it.
- But redeeming means paying everything owed, plus interest, plus a 5% penalty. The hole gets deeper the longer it goes.
- If the redemption period runs out, the county keeps the property — including all the equity above the tax debt.
Try this first
The county would rather get paid than take your house. Before anything else:
- Call your county tax collector. Ask exactly where you are on the timeline and about a payment plan. Jackson County Taxation: 541-774-6541. Josephine County: 541-474-5175.
- 62 or older, or on disability? Oregon's Property Tax Deferral program can pay your current taxes for you (a lien repaid when the home sells). It won't cover old back taxes, but once enrolled you can ask the county about delaying foreclosure. Oregon DOR Deferral Unit: 503-945-8348. Apply through your county assessor.
- Talk to a free housing counselor (oregonhomeownerhelp.org) — tax trouble and mortgage trouble often travel together, and they can help with both.
We're not attorneys or counselors — these are the same free resources we'd point our own family to. If you've tried them, or they don't fit your situation, that's what we're here for.
Behind on the mortgage too? What to try before a foreclosure sale →
What we handle
- Paying off the tax balance at closing so you don't have to come up with it first.
- Houses in any condition — tax trouble and deferred maintenance usually travel together, and that's fine.
- Fast closings when a county deadline is close.
Ready when you are.
Call (541) 507-8582 with your notice in hand. We'll help you figure out where things actually stand.