Foreclosures




What is tax foreclosure?

When property becomes three full years delinquent the Treasurer begins foreclosure action. In July the Certificate of Delinquency is filed with the Adams County Superior Court. In addition to taxes and interest, foreclosure costs begin to accrue. Title searches are conducted for each parcel. As required by law, all parties with a recorded legal interest are served by certified mail with the notice and summons. A notice and summons is also published in the official county newspaper. (RCW 84.64.050) The Treasurer receives a judgment from the Superior Court foreclosing on the tax liens and authorizing the sale of the parcels. All of the parcels being foreclosed on can be redeemed by their owners, or other parties with legal interest, up until the close of business on the day before the public auction.

Thorough research on all potential purchases is essential. It is important that you complete this research prior to the day of the sale. There are definite risks when buying tax foreclosure and tax title properties. Even County owned surplus sales might present risks. Buying property without doing complete research can result in unwanted and costly surprises. Deeds issued provide the purchaser no guarantees. There can be clouded title or other problems which the County is neither aware of nor responsible for.

To obtain assistance to avoid foreclosure you may contact the Washington Home Ownership Resource Center at 1-877-894-HOME (4663).


Parcels that are not purchased at the sale become Tax Title Property and are held in trust by the county. To obtain a list of Tax Title Property please email: treasurer@co.adams.wa.us


If you would like to be added to our foreclosure notification list please send an email to: treasurer@co.adams.wa.us