Random Selection Bidding Process

Some counties and cities prefer the random selection method to auction off their tax liens, rather than open bidding, since it seems the fairest way to offer all investors a chance at the properties available. In the random selection process each bidder is given a specific number, than a computer (or person) draws a number for each property up for auction. The first bidder's number is drawn and they have the right to accept or deny the option to bid on the tax lien. If they deny the right to bid, the next number is chosen, and so on. There number is then placed back into the mix and could be pulled at a later time on another proeprty.

It does limit the opportunites for investors to be able to bid on a proeprty of interest. It is usually done when the auction is done onsite. If a property does not get bid on could end up on the counties list of "struck properties" or sold another day of the auction or a later auction.