DETROIT — “In our July auction we were able to sell nearly 1,000 properties.  Prior to that auction we sold approximately 600 properties to occupants.  These transactions help to stabilize our communities and provide housing for our citizens,” announced Wayne County Treasurer Raymond J. Wojtowicz.  The Treasurer is also releasing information regarding the September 2012 auction of more than 20,000 properties that were subject to tax foreclosure.  “While we are required by law to collect delinquent taxes and foreclose on properties when taxes are not paid, my office is actively engaged in assisting distressed taxpayers in avoiding foreclosure,” Wojtowicz explained. The Treasurer has created a separate department within his office to assist those property owners in need.  

The Taxpayer Assistance Department will explain programs to citizens to assist them in dealing with delinquent tax problems.  This year the office has assisted over 20,000 taxpayers in avoiding foreclosure.   

When taxpayers cannot or will not pay their taxes, however, the Treasurer’s Office is required by law to foreclose and then mandated to sell the properties at public auction. Recently Treasurer Wojtowicz initiated online auctions with positive results.  The 2011 auctions produced over $33 million in sales. The September auction of tax foreclosed properties will take place through the Treasurer’s website at: www.treasurer.waynecounty.com.  To participate, those interested must register and pay a deposit no later than September 7.  To bid on one property, the registration and deposit is $535.  To bid on more than one property, one must deposit $5000 and pay the $35 registration fee.  Bidding starts at the total amount of all delinquent taxes on the property beginning as low as $1,000.  Anyone not successful in purchasing a property will have their deposit and registration fee refunded. Email auction questions to:  WCTAuction@co.wayne.mi.us or call (313) 224-5990.