Tax Sales
Georgian Bluffs may initiate a property tax sale when taxes remain unpaid for two years prior to January 1 of any given year, in accordance with the Municipal Act, 2001. This legal process helps recover unpaid property taxes while maintaining fairness and transparency.
When taxes remain unpaid, the Township may register a Tax Arrears Certificate on the property title. This certificate notifies the property owner that the property will be sold if the outstanding taxes (known as the cancellation price) are not paid within one year of registration.
Once a certificate has been registered, partial payments cannot be accepted unless the property owner enters into an approved extension agreement before the one-year deadline. If the cancellation price is not paid in time, the Township may advertise the property for sale by public tender.
How Tax Sales Work:
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Advertisements run in local newspapers and in the Ontario Gazette.
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Properties are also listed on the Ontario Tax Sales website.
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Sales are conducted through a sealed tender process open to the public.
For a full overview, visit: What is a Tax Sale? – Ontario Tax Sales
How to Place a Bid
All bids must be submitted in writing using the prescribed form as included in the bid documents. You can obtain bid documents:
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Through the Ontario Tax Sales Website
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At the Township Administration Office, located at 177964 Grey Road 18, Owen Sound.
Bid documents and a minimum 20% deposit must be sealed and delivered, in person or by mail as outlined in the tender package, to the Township Office (177964 Grey Road 18). Late or incomplete bids will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
A tax sale is a public process in which a municipality sells properties with unpaid taxes through a public tender. It is not a foreclosure and does not guarantee clear title.
Why does the Township conduct tax sales?
To recover unpaid taxes and ensure all property owners meet their obligations, while maintaining fairness to those who do.
Can the property owners still make payments once a Tax Arrears Certificate is registered?
Only if the owner enters into a formal extension agreement with the Township before the one-year expiry. Otherwise, only full payment of the cancellation price is accepted.
Can I visit or inspect the property before bidding?
No. Properties are sold as-is, and the Township does not grant access to the properties.
All bids must be submitted in writing using the prescribed form as included in the bid documents. You can obtain bid documents:
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Through the Ontario Tax Sales Website
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At the Township Administration Office, located at 177964 Grey Road 18, Owen Sound.
Bid documents and a minimum 20% deposit must be sealed and delivered in person or by mail as outlined in the tender package to the Township Office (177964 Grey Road 18). Late or incomplete bids will not be considered.
Will I automatically get the property if I’m the highest bidder?
Only if all requirements are met and the Township accepts the tender. The process must follow legislative requirements, and the Township retains the right to reject offers.
Contact Us
Tax Sales
177964 Grey Road 18,
Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N5