What is the typical next step if a property is not redeemed after a tax sale?

• A. The property reverts to the original owner automatically.
• B. The tax lien is erased and no further action is taken.
• C. The purchaser may pursue foreclosure on the tax lien through court action to obtain clear title.
• D. The municipality refunds the purchase price to the purchaser.

Answer: (C)

When a property sold at tax sale is not redeemed within the allowed period, the typical next step is for the tax lien purchaser to pursue foreclosure in court to obtain clear title. The sale creates a lien on the property, and if the owner does not redeem, the lien holder can file a foreclosure action to convert the lien into a tax deed. This procedure transfers ownership rights to the purchaser, subject to any remaining encumbrances or interests. The other options don’t fit because the property doesn’t automatically revert to the owner, the lien isn’t erased, and the municipality doesn’t refund the purchase price.