First Tuesday Auction

The First Tuesday Auction is the colloquial name for the monthly non-judicial foreclosure trustee sales conducted in Texas pursuant to Texas Property Code §51.002. All non-judicial foreclosure trustee sales in Texas must take place on the first Tuesday of each month between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM at a location designated by the county commissioners court — typically the courthouse steps. Properties may only be sold at the First Tuesday auction that follows the mandatory 21-day posting period.

Texas Context

Each of Texas's 254 counties designates a specific location for First Tuesday auctions — usually the courthouse steps or an outdoor area adjacent to the courthouse. Properties are auctioned to the highest bidder, with the opening bid set by the lender (usually the outstanding loan balance plus fees). Investors purchasing at First Tuesday auctions take title subject to any senior liens (IRS liens, property tax liens) and receive a trustee's deed rather than a warranty deed.