Not all forfeited parcels are offered at a sale. Each parcel is reviewed by various governmental agencies for approval. These approved parcels must be offered at a public auction; any parcel that does not sell at an auction may then be purchased “over the counter” at the Auditor’s office, based on the last auction’s appraised amount.

We have a land sale approximately every two years. Frequency is determined by the number of saleable parcels and availability of county staff to process parcels for sale.  

Information you need to know prior to purchasing

Properties are sold to the highest bidder “AS IS,” and buyers should understand that sales are subject to existing leases; that the properties may not be “buildable,” meaning that properties may not conform to zoning and building ordinances for building placement; and, further, that environmental issues may affect the property.

All sales are final – no refunds.

All tax forfeited property approved for sale must be offered at a public auction. All properties offered have been appraised and the minimum bid that will be accepted is the appraised value. Properties are sold to highest bidder.

All sales are to be paid in full on the day of the sale. Forms of payment accepted are cash or check (includes cashier checks).  No credit cards will be accepted. No County sponsored financing is available. Purchase amount includes:

1. Accepted bid (sale) amount
2. Assurance Fee (currently 3% of  sale) – this goes to the state
3. State Deed Fee (currently $25.00)
4. State Deed Tax (sale amount x .0033)
5. Deed Recording Fee (currently $46.00)

It is strongly suggested that you thoroughly research any tax forfeited property parcels before purchasing, and that you understand the Minnesota laws regarding forfeiture.  You can reference Minnesota Statutes, Chapters 279 thru 282, or consider consulting your own attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is your next sale / auction?
1. No sale is currently scheduled.

2. How can I find out when a sale is scheduled?
1. Watch this website.
2. Approximately 30 days prior to the sale a listing of available property will be published in the County’s official newspaper, the Mille Lacs County Times.
3. Your name can be added to a mailing list to receive information for the next sale.  You will need to add your name to the list after each sale.
1. Call 320-983-8310 or 320-983-8301
2. Email: nancy.eibes@co.mille-lacs.mn.us or
   lisa.sjodin@co.mille-lacs.mn.us

3. What properties will be offered at sale (auction)?
1. Watch this website.
2. Approximately 30 days prior to the sale a listing of available property will be published in the County’s official newspaper, the Mille Lacs County Times.
3. If you are on the mailing list, you will get a listing with the notice of next sale date.

4. How do I receive information about a particular property?
1. Contact the Auditor’s office:
1. By phone at 320-983-8310 or 320-983-8301
2. Written request by mail – Mille Lacs County Auditors Office, 635 2nd St SE, Milaca, MN 56353
3. Email request to: nancy.eibes@co.mille-lacs.mn.us or lisa.sjodin@co.mille-lacs.mn.us

5. Do I need to be present to purchase property?
1. Yes, the sale is an open auction, no sealed bids.

6. What type of payment is accepted?
1. Cash or check, no credit cards.

7. What happens to properties not sold at the auction?
1. They will remain available for purchase through the Auditor’s office for the amount listed at the auction (watch this site). If not sold by the next auction, they may get reappraised for a new offering.

8. Is there a waiting period prior to taking possession?
1. No, possession of the property is immediate. The previous owner’s rights to redeem/repurchase have expired by the sale date.

9. How do I get “title” to the property?
1. You will be issued a receipt for the property at the sale. The Auditor’s office will complete and submit the paperwork to the State. The State will issue a state deed. This is titled “Conveyance of Forfeited Lands.” This conveyance shall have the force and effect of a patent from the state; however, services of an attorney may be necessary to make the title marketable. Upon receipt of the state deed the Auditor’s Office will record the deed, and then forward it to the purchaser.