Bill > HB5526

This bill clarifies the requirements for individuals and entities wishing to purchase tax-abandoned land at auctions conducted by the Auditor, which is a state official responsible for managing these sales. It specifies that potential bidders must register in advance or provide a notarized affidavit confirming their eligibility on the day of the sale, and outlines several reasons why a bidder might be disqualified, including failing to pay for a previous purchase within the last five years, being delinquent on property taxes for a property being certified for sale, having a history of noncompliance with code enforcement violations (specifically, failing to comply with five or more orders within five years), being involved in legal proceedings related to code enforcement violations, failing to comply with raze or repair orders within five years, or attempting to bid on behalf of someone who is ineligible. The bill also requires out-of-state businesses to prove they are registered to do business in the state. Furthermore, it allows the Auditor to cancel a sale and refund the purchase price if a buyer is later found to be ineligible, and it clarifies that private, nonprofit, charitable corporations focused on housing or public facilities may have a special bidding advantage.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5526&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill