If you’ve acquired property through a tax deed in Georgia, we offer two essential legal services designed to help you protect and perfect your ownership: (1) Foreclosure of the Right to Redeem and a (2) Quiet Title Action.
1. Foreclosure of the Right to Redeem
Overview
In Georgia, you are eligible to begin the process of foreclosing or barring the right to redeem the property one year after the tax sale. This legal step permanently terminates the rights of the prior owner and other interested parties to reclaim the property.
Notification Process
You must notify the individual who owned the property at the time of the tax sale, along with any other parties holding a legal interest. A full title search is required to identify these parties. Notice must be given both directly and through legal publication. After these steps, an affidavit of barment is filed with the court to finalize the process.
Our Fixed Fee
We typically charge a fixed fee of $3,250, which includes most standard out-of-pocket expenses. This covers the title search (approximately $350), publication (around $250), sheriff’s service (about $50 per service), and certified mailings (approximately $6.80 per envelope).
In cases where the prior owner is deceased, we must identify and locate all heirs, which may require additional time and cost. If this applies to your case, we will consult with you to assess the additional work required.
2. Quiet Title Action
Overview
After foreclosing the right to redeem, a quiet title action is often necessary to obtain full, marketable title. This process eliminates any remaining claims and allows you to sell, develop, or finance the property confidently.
Legal Procedure
A quiet title action is filed in the Superior Court of the county where the property is located. The court appoints a special master—an independent attorney—who reviews the case and submits a recommendation to the judge regarding the legitimacy of the title.
Fees and Estimated Costs
Our attorney’s fees for quiet title actions are billed at $400 per hour. In most cases, the legal work required amounts to approximately $2,500. The fee for the court-appointed special master is typically $2,500, and court costs—such as filing fees and service of process—are usually around $1,000.
Altogether, the total average cost of a quiet title action is approximately $6,000, depending on the complexity of the case.
Ready to Move Forward?
We’re here to help you through every step of the process—from initial notice to full title clearance. For a consultation or to begin service, please contact our office directly at 404-382-9994.