Tax lien investing doesn't seem to be mainstream here in the United States. Few people know about it and among those that know about the strategies few actually pursue it. What's interesting is that we hear from many people outside of the US that would like to be involved. These students would like to get involved but aren't sure if that's a possibility or how to get started.
The first thing to consider is whether or not it is possible. YES! It is possible to invest in tax lien certificates and tax deed properties all over the US from outside the US. If you're going to invest directly from the county it's important to know the specific county rules. You will have to fill out forms such as a W-9. This may mean that you have to create a legal US entity such as an LLC or Corp.
Investing from outside the US is also dependent on county cooperation. Will you need to be present at an auction to invest in that particular county? Are you able to buy tax deed properties after the auction? If you need to be present, then you can usually have someone represent you (which may be a satisfactory option for you).
County cooperation is usually the most important thing for us when investing in tax liens and tax deed properties. Cooperation includes many things for us: list availability, access to property information, county worker helpfulness, and ease of purchase. If the county does not have very good cooperation for a tax lien investor then you probably won't be able to invest there from outside that county.
If you are going to invest in tax deeds then it may be a little bit trickier to invest from outside the US. There are most certainly some risks involved in tax lien and tax deed investing; mainly ending up with a property with little or no value. This can be easily avoided by properly researching each property you intend to purchase. Due diligence is always more simple when you live in the area of the property you're interested in but many advanced investors can invest without being present. This requires great county cooperation and probably a contact or two in the area to help with your due diligence. This can be as simple as calling a local real estate agent and paying them a fee to help you out.
No Risk Investor also makes it possible and very simple to invest from outside the US. Lists, information, and properties are available here. If you want to take a short cut then this is your best option.
Don't be discouraged, investing in tax lien certificates and at tax deed sales is a great opportunity and can be done from all over the world!
No Risk Investor is the ultimate resource and tool for tax lien investors all over the world. No Risk Investor takes incredible pride in its ability to help students take action, get into properties, and begin the journey to financial freedom. No Risk Investor provides county lists, property lists, online auction lists, comprehensive training and education, an auction calendar, an investor community and much more for its members.
