In Rochester, NY, tax auctions are not some distant threat—they’re real, and they happen every year. Homeowners who fall behind on property taxes can suddenly find themselves facing the terrifying prospect of losing their home at public auction. If you’ve received notices or warning letters from Monroe County, time is not on your side.
But you’re not powerless.
In this post, we break down what options exist, how quickly you need to act, and why working with a trusted local cash buyer like Brett Buys Roc Houses LLC can be the difference between disaster and peace of mind.
What is a Tax Auction and Why Should You Be Concerned?
A tax auction occurs when a homeowner doesn’t pay their property taxes and the county takes legal steps to recover the debt. After a certain period, the county can legally foreclose on the home and sell it at auction—often to the highest bidder, regardless of your situation.
In Monroe County, the timeline moves faster than many homeowners expect. Once the foreclosure process is started, it’s difficult—but not impossible—to stop.
This is why early action is everything.
Your Options to Stop a Tax Auction
While every homeowner’s situation is unique, here are three of the most effective ways to avoid a tax auction:
1. Pay Off the Tax Debt in Full If you have the means, this is the most straightforward option. Contact the Monroe County Treasury, get a payoff amount, and clear your tax bill. The auction process will be halted immediately.
2. Set Up a Payment Plan with the County Monroe County may allow installment agreements if your account is not too far gone. You’ll need to provide proof of income and commit to a monthly schedule. Missed payments can restart the auction process, and upfront lump sums may be required.
3. Sell Your Home to a Local Cash Buyer If catching up is not realistic, selling your home quickly to a reputable local investor can pay off your tax debt, stop the auction, and give you a fresh start. This is where Brett Buys Roc Houses LLC can help.
We buy houses in Rochester NY as-is—no repairs, no cleaning, no delays. We understand the timelines of tax auctions and work directly with local attorneys to move fast and close quickly.
Why Waiting Can Cost You Everything
We’ve seen it too many times: sellers wait too long, hoping something will change. Meanwhile, interest, penalties, and legal fees add up. What could have been a manageable situation turns into a full-blown crisis.
And here’s the harsh truth: even a trusted home buyer can’t help if you wait until the final hour. Real solutions require a little time.
We’ve stopped auctions before—but it’s never guaranteed. Your best chance is to act the moment you realize you’re behind.
Real Results, Real People
At Brett Buys Roc Houses LLC, we’ve helped dozens of Rochester homeowners escape the stress and uncertainty of tax auctions. With over 90 five-star Google reviews and an A+ BBB rating, we are trusted by the community to deliver fast, fair solutions.
If you’re facing a tax auction, here’s what you can expect from us:
- Clear and honest communication
- A cash offer within 24 hours
- Fast closings—often within 20–40 days
- Assistance with transition and moving support if needed
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the County Decide for You
Losing your home at auction doesn’t have to be the end of the story. You have choices—but only if you take them seriously now.
If you’ve been searching for “we buy houses Rochester NY,” you’ve found the right place. Let’s talk and see if we’re a fit. Even if we’re not, we’ll give you guidance based on real experience—not empty promises.
👉 Reach out today at brettbuysrochouses.com to request a no-pressure consultation.
Your home. Your timeline. Let’s protect it—together.