San Diego County Property Tax Auction Nears Registration Deadline

The annual online auction features 686 properties and could generate over $18 million in revenue for the county.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 8:49pm

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San Diego County is holding its annual online property tax auction from March 13-18, featuring 686 properties for sale. Prospective buyers have until Thursday to register and submit a refundable $1,000 deposit, as well as a non-refundable $35 processing fee. The auction could generate over $18 million in revenue for the county if all properties are sold at the minimum bid.

Why it matters

The property tax auction is an important revenue source for San Diego County, allowing it to recoup unpaid taxes on delinquent properties. The auction also provides an opportunity for investors and homebuyers to acquire properties at potentially discounted prices.

The details

The properties listed in this year's auction include 70 improved properties, 66 unimproved properties, and 550 timeshares. Property owners can still avoid having their properties sold by paying all delinquent taxes and fees by 5 p.m. on March 12. All sales from the auction are final.

  • The auction will be held from March 13-18, 2026.
  • The registration deadline for prospective buyers is Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • Property owners have until 5 p.m. on March 12, 2026 to pay delinquent taxes and fees to avoid their properties being sold.

The players

Larry Cohen

San Diego County Treasurer, who stated that the auction this year features hundreds of properties that could be opportunities for hopeful buyers.

San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector's Office

The office overseeing the annual property tax auction, which features 686 properties for sale this year.

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What they’re saying

“This year we have hundreds of properties that might be the perfect opportunity for a hopeful buyer. Our online system makes it simple to research and bid on a variety of properties across San Diego County.”

— Larry Cohen, San Diego County Treasurer

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The San Diego County property tax auction provides an important revenue source for the county, while also offering investment opportunities for buyers. The upcoming auction features a wide range of properties, from improved to unimproved and timeshares, that could be of interest to prospective purchasers.