Answers by Joel Barber

Yes, in many cases you can request to have two adjoining parcels combined into one. This is usually done through your county assessor’s or tax office, and the process is sometimes called a “parcel combination” or “lot consolidation.” Once approved, it can reduce the administrative side of property taxes so you aren’t billed separately for each lot. The best step is to call your local property appraiser or assessor’s office and ask what paperwork they require. In Horry County, SC (Myrtle Beach area) for example, we’ve helped clients combine adjoining lots, which not only simplified taxes but also increased resale value by marketing it as one larger parcel. If you’re considering this for long-term planning, it can also impact future building options or resale strategy, so checking with zoning and planning is wise.

Buying a home through tax sales is possible, but it’s important to understand the risks. In most states, including North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia, tax auctions often come with redemption periods where the original owner can reclaim the property. Titles from tax sales can also carry liens that must be cleared before you get full ownership. If your main goal is affordable housing, sometimes buying a starter home in areas like Myrtle Beach, SC or Conway, SC is a safer option than gambling on tax auctions. Our market still has homes at reasonable prices, and you avoid the legal complications that often come with tax deeds. If you’d like, I can connect you with resources on how to safely pursue affordable homes without the headaches of tax sales.