Frequently Asked Questions

How can I buy Town-owed property?

Properties taken by foreclosure (sometimes called "tax posessions") are auctioned off from time to time. There is no regularly scheduled auction. It is a public sale, usually held at the site, and is duly advertised both by a notice in a local newspaper and by a notice posted on the property. The law does not permit the Town to sell privately, i.e. other than by public auction.

May I have a list of tax-title properties?

Yes. The list is a public document. However, it is simply a listing of properties upon which the Town has perfected its lien by means of a document recorded at the Registry of Deeds or Land Court. The Town does not acquire any rights over the property through the lien and has no right of entry or responsibility for the conditon of the premises.

Can I buy a property that is in tax title?

Except in the case of so-called "land of low value" - small, unbuildable lots - the Town has no power to sell a property in tax title unless and until the Land Court has finalized an order of foreclosure to confer title to the Town. Until foreclosure, the record owner of the property may sell to anyone, subject to the Town's lien.

Does the Town sell tax liens?

No.

I own a tiny lot that is in tax title. I can't use it and don't want it. But I keep getting tax bills for it. Why doesn't the Town just take it over?

If the Town can't use it or sell it, there is no public purpose served by taking it off the tax rolls and assuming liability for its condition.