Pennsylvania law permits a county real estate tax claim bureau to sell real property to third parties for unpaid taxes. The law imposes strict and technical notice requirements upon the government to deprive a property owner of his ownership by selling the real estate for unpaid taxes. Broadly, notices must be sent by certified mail, published in the newspaper and county legal reporter and posted at the property before a sale may occur by the county. County tax sales occur in September of the year for properties that are at least two years delinquent in paying real property taxes.
Pennsylvania law requires more, however, for properties exposed for tax sale where the property is also the primary residence of the owner.
Section 601 of the Real Estate Tax Sale Law requires personal service of the notice of a real estate tax sale to the owner of owner-occupied real property. The reasoning behind such extraordinary personal notice is clear: a county tax sale of owner-occupied property creates a homeless citizen.
If you have questions about your real estate tax situation, it is crucial that you have an experienced real estate tax sale attorney review your case. At Amori & Associates, LLC, experienced real estate tax sale attorney Scott M. Amori would be happy to discuss your situation.
Please contact Amori & Associates at (570) 421-1406 for a no obligation consultation.