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1. How can I obtain information on foreclosure properties?

We provide information on these properties on our website under the heading of Foreclosure/Distraint.

Other types of foreclosures may be through the Yakima County Sheriff's Office and lenders who are foreclosing on their Deeds of Trust for which our office has no responsibility.

2. If I have delinquent taxes and/or assessments, when does the county begin their foreclosure process?

Real property foreclosure begins May 1st for real property taxes/assessments delinquent 3 or more years.   Personal property taxes where current year's taxes are less than $50, must have 1st half paid by April 30th to avoid Distraint and associated costs.  Personal property taxes where current year's taxes are more than $50 for the entire year, must be paid by October 31st to avoid Distraint and associated costs.

3. Where do I go to find out if there are any liens on my property?

Liens are recorded in the Yakima County Auditor's Office in Room 117 of the Yakima County Courthouse. Their operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Please check with the Yakima County Clerk's Office which is located on the 3rd floor of the County Courthouse for any judgments that may have been filed.

4. What are surplus funds/proceeds?

If a parcel is sold at a foreclosure sale for an amount greater than the minimum bid, the surplus monies (excess proceeds) can be claimed by the previous recorded title owner provided that all registered liens having a legal right to claim the money have been satisfied.  If a valid claim has not been received after a three year period, the surplus is deposited into County funds. (RCW 84.64.080).  

The amount of fees or compensation provided to third parties assisting in locating or purporting to locate any property or surplus funds is limited to 5% of the value returned to the rightful owner under RCW 63.29.350.  Any person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not less than the amount of the fee or charge he or she has sought or received or contracted for, and not more than 10 times such amount, or imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or both.