Michigan 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

6 months from sale date

Max Interest Rate

N/A

IRS Lien Survives

Yes — verify before bidding

Foreclosure Required

Quiet Title Required

Yes

Counties Covered

83 counties

Quiet Title Required in Michigan

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

$2,000–$5,000

Legal Fees

6–18 mo

Timeline

How Tax Sales Work in Michigan

Michigan conducts tax deed sales with 6-month minimum redemption period. Quiet title recommended. State Land Bank Authority holds many available properties.

Quick Due Diligence Checklist for Michigan

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 Michigan

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

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

Budget for quiet title action — required in Michigan 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: M.C.L. § 211.78k · Verified: March 2026 · Always verify current laws directly with the Michigan state statutes and your county treasurer. This is not legal or investment advice.

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