Anyone interested in investing in delinquent property taxes through a tax lien can learn tips of the trade at Douglas County’s Tax Lien Seminar on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. at the Douglas County Philip S. Miller Building, 100 Third St., in Castle Rock. 

The seminar is designed to help those interested in becoming a tax lien holder on a property by providing tips on the process, what to be aware of and what makes a more risky investment.  This is a great opportunity for first-time participants to learn more about whether they are prepared to make an investment or for previous participants to brush up on the process as well as get any questions answered.

“Becoming a lien holder can be a great investment if you know what to look for in a property,” said Douglas County Treasurer Sharon Jones.  “As with any investment, there are risks.”

All properties available for bidding at the Tax Lien Sale are those properties that have 2008 or prior year property taxes owed to Douglas County.  Douglas County’s average collection rate on property taxes is 99.9 percent annually, therefore only a small percentage of taxes are available to bid on at the sale.  The statutory interest for the 2009 Tax Lien Sale is 10%. 

A person or company can bid on the delinquent taxes at the sale where the highest bidder will be awarded and becomes the lien holder.  This seminar will explain what the lien holder will be responsible for paying to Douglas County and what the lien holder will get back in return if their tax lien is redeemed. 

In preparation for the annual Tax Lien Sale, the local newspaper will publish the first listing of delinquent properties.  The publications will be Oct 15, Oct 22, and Oct 29.  No changes will be made to the advertisement once it has been submitted for publication.  Property owners have until 12:00 noon on Nov.10, to pay their taxes.    

For more information on the Tax Lien Seminar or Sale, please visit www.douglas.co.us/treasurer/Tax_Lien_Sale_Information.html or call the Treasurer’s Office at 303.660.7455.