Montgomery County, PA

John P. Durante
Sheriff

What is the 10% deposit?

Ten percent is the deposit you have to pay in cash, money order, or certified check at the time of sale.  The money orders or certified checks are made payable to "Sheriff of Montgomery County"

When do I have to pay the rest of the money?

The balance of your bid is payable within ten (10) calendar days to the sheriff in cash, money order or by certified check.

If you do not pay the balance of your bid you will lose your deposit.

Why does the Sheriff's Office highly recommend that you consult your own attorney for advice about how to purchase property at Sheriff's Sales?

The Sheriff does not guarantee clear title to any property sold at sale.  For example, you may buy a property with numerous liens requiring you to pay a lot more money than what you bid for the property and you must, under the law, pay these lien holders to clear what is now your title.  This is solely YOUR responsibility.  All liens registered on properties can be obtained at the Prothonotary Office in the Courthouse.  A title search is recommended.

Do Sheriff's Sales differ from Tax Sales or Judicial Sales?

Yes, there are significant differences.  For information regarding Tax Sales or Judicial Sales, contact the Montgomery County Tax Claim Bureau at One Montgomery Plaza, Norristown, PA., at (610) 278-3570 or visit their website at www.montcopa.org/taxclaim.

When do the Sheriff's Sales take place?

Sheriff's Sales are conducted each month and a yearly calendar maybe obtained on the counter at the Real Estate section of the Sheriff's Office or found on the Sheriff's Website.

Where are the Sheriff's Sales held?

Sales are held in Courtroom "A" at the Montgomery County Courthouse, Swede and Airy Streets, Norristown on the scheduled day.

Can I obtain a list of the properties to be sold?

Yes,  For each property to be sold there is a handbill posted in the Sheriff's Office at the Montgomery County Courthouse and an advertisement in the local newspaper of general circulation where the property is situated.  This will appear once a week for three (3) weeks before the sale.  A full list of the properties can also be obtained in booklet form in the Law Reporter published by the Montgomery County Bar Association.  To obtain a subscription call 610-279-9660, Ext 210.

If I see a property I want to buy, can I inspect it before the sale?

No, the properties are not available for inspection and the Sheriff's Department makes no guarantee on the condition of the property sold at Sheriff's Sale.

How do I buy a property at Sheriff's Sale?

You need  to attend the sale  at the date and time advertised.  The sale is a public auction and you will have to bid on the property.  Attorneys are present who represent the financial institutions that bring such actions.  Prior to the sale you may want to consult with them.    

Note:  All persons attending Sheriff Sales shall be dressed in the proper attire. No eating or drinking is allowed  in the court room where Sheriff Sale is conducted. All cell phones and pagers are to be turned off during the sale. These rules will be strictly enforced.

Also Note: No questions or discussions will be taken from the public regarding the Sheriff Sale in the  courtroom.

It is suggested that you follow the instructions given in the Sheriff Sale pamphlet.