Jackson County, Miss. (Mississippi Press) –
Want a home in the heart of downtown Ocean Springs? It can be yours for about $60,000 — just one of nearly 400 Jackson County homes, businesses and properties up for public auction.
Bidding began Wednesday morning on 376 tax-forfeited properties in Jackson County, with a total estimated value of some $1.6 million, according to Mississippi Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann, whose office handles the auction.
The properties are spread throughout the county and include parcels within all four municipalities.
“Online auctions are a great tool for local communities because they make it easier for citizens to purchase property forfeited to the State for nonpayment of ad valorem (property) taxes,” Hosemann said. “Formerly neglected properties are restored to the tax rolls and the money raised is distributed to cities, counties and schools.”
The estimated market value of the properties range from a low of $800 to the aforementioned $60,650 for a home near the intersection of Government Street and General Pershing Avenue in downtown Ocean Springs.
Bidding will continue through 11:59 p.m. on July 25. Bidders must register online at the secretary of state’s website. Once registered, users may view property details including parcel location, legal description and an auction map.
Also included are estimated market values, although the market values listed are for informational purpose only. A true price will be provided once an application is submitted to acquire the property. Hosemann’s office will extend an offer price which may be accepted or rejected.
And, in true eBay fashion, the auction also offers a “Buy It Now” feature for those of an impatient nature, allowing them to purchase a property immediately rather than waiting until the end of the auction next month.
Successful bidders will be notified by email shortly after the auction ends and payment for the property must be submitted within 15 days of receipt of that notification.