Guide · Selling Land
5 min read · Texas
Short answer: usually yes. Owing back property taxes does not stop you from selling — in most cases the past-due amount is simply paid off at closing. Here's how it works.
Unpaid taxes accrue penalties and interest, and a tax lien attaches to the property. Left long enough, the county can move toward a tax foreclosure or tax-deed sale. The exact timeline varies by state and county.
Yes. A buyer or title company can pay the delinquent taxes out of the sale proceeds at closing, so the lien is cleared and the title transfers clean.
The title company requests an official payoff from the county, deducts it from the sale price, and sends you the remainder. You typically don't pay anything out of pocket up front.
Act quickly. Depending on the stage, a sale can sometimes still close before a tax sale — but timing is critical, so reach out sooner rather than later.
This is general information, not legal or tax advice — confirm specifics with your county or a professional.
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Questions
Usually yes. The delinquent taxes are typically paid off at closing from the sale proceeds, clearing the lien.
They're generally paid from the sale proceeds at closing via the title company, so you don't pay out of pocket up front.
Act fast. Depending on the stage, a sale may still close before a tax sale, but timing is critical.