Auction
Opening Bid
The lowest bid a county will accept for a parcel at a tax sale.
The opening bid (or minimum bid) usually covers the delinquent taxes, interest, penalties, and sale costs. It reflects what is owed, not what the property is worth.
Competitive parcels often sell for many times the opening bid. Parcels with problems may draw no bids at all.
How it works by state
- California
- California minimum bids generally cover the redemption amount and sale costs. Counties may lower the minimum for a later reoffer.
- Florida
- For homestead property, Florida's opening bid also includes half of the assessed value.
General information, reviewed 2026-10-12. Not legal advice. Rules change and each county publishes its own sale terms; confirm with the county before bidding.