SB 712 - Current law authorizes county collectors to sell delinquent properties at auction, and provides for a redemption period prior to the purchaser acquiring the deed to the delinquent property. This act provides that, prior to commencing the sale of any property to satisfy delinquent taxes, interest, and penalties, the collector shall, by registered mail, notify the property owner of such property that the property owner may negotiate a compromise on any delinquent taxes, interest, and penalties. Any such compromise shall not include a reduction in the amount of property tax owed, but may include an agreement to pay such amount in installments over a period not to exceed three years, and may include, at the collector's discretion, a waiver of all or part of interest and penalties owned. If no such agreement is in place by April first, the collector may proceed to sell the property pursuant to current law. (Section 140.120) In the absence of a compromise agreement made pursuant to the act, for all property actually occupied by the owner of record as the primary residence and that is sold for delinquent taxes on or after January 1, 2026, this act provides that the purchaser of such delinquent property shall not acquire the deed to or take possession of the delinquent property unless the owner of record has transferred ownership pursuant to current law or has otherwise vacated the property for a period of thirty days or more. (Sections 140.250 to 140.405)
JOSH NORBERG