Maine Tax Sale Laws — Investor Guide

Investors purchase a lien on the property, earning interest until the owner redeems it or the investor forecloses.

Redemption Period

1.5 years from sale date

Max Interest Rate

8% / year

IRS Lien Survives

Yes — verify before bidding

Foreclosure Required

Quiet Title Required

Yes

Counties Covered

16 counties

Quiet Title Required in Maine

Before a title insurer will issue a policy on a tax deed property in Maine, you'll need to complete a quiet title action.

$1,500–$5,000

Legal Fees

6–18 mo

Timeline

How Tax Sales Work in Maine

Maine uses a tax lien process. A tax lien is recorded at the registry of deeds and earns 8% per annum. The owner has 18 months to redeem. If unredeemed, the municipality automatically acquires title through a "foreclosure" of the lien (no court action needed). The municipality may then sell the property. Quiet title is recommended. IRS liens survive if the IRS was not properly notified.

Quick Due Diligence Checklist for Maine

Verify property is still on the auction list within 48 hours of sale (redemptions happen until the last minute)

Check for federal IRS liens — they survive the tax sale in Maine

Search for HOA liens and municipal code violations — these may survive in some counties

Budget for foreclosure costs — required in Maine to convert a lien to deed

Budget for quiet title action — required in Maine before title insurance will issue

Drive the property or use street view to confirm structure exists and is accessible

Verify assessed value vs. back taxes owed — if taxes exceed assessed value, it may be a junk property

Source: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 36 §942 et seq. · Verified: January 2025 · Always verify current laws directly with the Maine state statutes and your county treasurer. This is not legal or investment advice.

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