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Abandoned Property
How Can We Get Title to Abandoned Property in Ohio?

How Can We Get Title to Abandoned Property in Ohio?

Full question:

Through a Sheriff Sale, we acquired land and a dwelling. On the property are two titled boats, + misc. items of value in the house. What are the steps we need to take to get legal title of the boats and how long till dispose of the stuff in the dwelling. We want to 'flip this house' is our goal?

Category: Abandoned Property
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Ohio

Answer:

We suggest contacting the local police department, as abandoned property ordinances vary by local area. Typically, written notice is required to be sent to the owner to claim the property with the specified time to avoid sale.

The fact that an abandoned junk vessel or outboard motor has been so left without permission or notification is prima facie evidence of abandonment. Similarly, No person can willfully leave an abandoned junk motor vehicle as defined in section 4513.63 of the Revised Code on private property for more than seventy-two hours without the permission of the person having the right to the possession of the property, or on a public street or other property open to the public for purposes of vehicular travel or parking, or upon or within the right-of-way of any road or highway, for forty-eight hours or longer without notification to the sheriff of the county or chief of police of the municipal corporation, township, or township police district of the reasons for leaving the motor vehicle in such place. The fact that a motor vehicle has been so left without permission or notification is prima-facie evidence of abandonment.

Please see the following OH statutes:

http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/1547.30
http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/1547.303
http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/1547.304
http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/4513.60

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is the right of a borrower to redeem property after a sheriff's sale called?

The right of a borrower to redeem property after a sheriff's sale is known as the "right of redemption." This allows the borrower to reclaim the property by paying the full amount owed, including any fees and costs, within a specific time frame set by state law. In Ohio, the redemption period typically lasts until the property is sold at the sheriff's sale, but specific details can vary. Always check local laws for precise timelines and conditions. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

What happens if a house doesn't sell at a sheriff sale?

If a house doesn't sell at a sheriff's sale, it typically becomes the property of the lender or the bank. The lender may then choose to list the property for sale through traditional means or hold onto it until market conditions improve. In some cases, the property may be subject to further foreclosure proceedings or may be sold at a later auction. Local laws can vary, so it's important to check specific regulations regarding unsold properties. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

What happens to liens after sheriff sale?

After a sheriff's sale, most liens on the property are typically extinguished, meaning they no longer attach to the property. However, certain liens, such as tax liens, may survive the sale. The specifics can vary by state, so it's crucial to review local laws to determine which liens remain enforceable. In Ohio, for example, tax liens may still be valid even after the sale. Always consult with a legal professional for guidance on your specific situation. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

What happens to foreclosed homes that don't sell?

Foreclosed homes that do not sell at a sheriff's sale typically revert to the lender or bank. The lender may then manage the property as an REO (real estate owned) asset, which they can list for sale on the market. If the property remains unsold, the lender may lower the price or consider alternative sale methods. Local laws may provide specific procedures for handling unsold foreclosures, so it's advisable to check those regulations. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

How do you buy a house through the sheriff sale?

To buy a house through a sheriff's sale, you typically need to attend the auction where the property is sold. Before bidding, research the property and understand the terms of the sale. You may need to register in advance and provide a deposit. Winning bidders must pay the sale price, often in cash or certified funds, immediately or within a specified timeframe. It's essential to be aware of any liens or encumbrances on the property. Local laws may have specific requirements for sheriff's sales, so check those before participating. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

What happens if no one bids on a sheriff sale?

If no one bids on a property at a sheriff's sale, the property usually reverts to the lender or bank that initiated the foreclosure. The lender may then decide to list the property for sale through traditional real estate channels or hold it as an asset. In some jurisdictions, the property may be scheduled for a future auction or subjected to further foreclosure actions. Local laws can vary, so it's important to understand the specific procedures in your area. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.