Falling behind doesn't automatically mean you have to sell your home. Let's understand what's happening and look at your options.
No pressure to sell. Just clear information and real options.
Tell us a little about the property and situation. We'll help you make sense of the paths available — with no obligation.
A calm, step-by-step walkthrough of how property tax delinquency works in Norfolk and the options in front of you. This is general educational information — for anything specific to your account, contact the City of Norfolk Treasurer or the Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue.
Fill this in as you gather information. There are no wrong answers, and nothing here commits you to anything.
Answer a few quick questions about your situation. We'll show you which paths tend to fit best — keeping the property, a traditional sale, or an as-is sale — with no pressure and no obligation.
Takes about a minute. Your choice, always — we never pressure you to sell.
The information below is general and educational. For anything specific to your account — balances, deadlines, penalties, or relief programs — contact the City of Norfolk Treasurer or the Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue, or speak with a licensed professional.
Real estate taxes in Norfolk are billed on a set schedule. If a payment isn't made by its due date, the balance becomes delinquent. Being delinquent is a common situation, and in most cases there are still options available. The first step is knowing exactly where things stand — the City of Norfolk Treasurer can tell you your current balance and status.
When a real estate tax balance goes unpaid past its due date, localities in Virginia can add a penalty and charge interest until it's paid. The exact rates and timing are set by the locality and state law, so the amount owed can grow over time. For the specific figures on your account, contact your local Treasurer's office directly rather than relying on estimates.
Many homeowners don't realize they can often pay a delinquent balance over time. The City of Norfolk Treasurer may be able to set up a payment arrangement, and paying part of the balance can reduce how much interest accrues. It's worth calling to ask what arrangements they offer before assuming you have to pay everything at once.
Virginia localities offer real estate tax relief and exemption programs for those who may qualify — for example, older adults, residents with disabilities, and certain veterans. Eligibility, deadlines, and amounts vary. The Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue handles these programs and can tell you whether you might qualify. There may also be community assistance resources worth exploring.
If real estate taxes remain unpaid for a long period, Virginia law allows a locality to eventually pursue a judicial sale of the property to recover what's owed. This is a legal process with notice requirements and typically happens only after taxes have been delinquent for a significant time. Because it's serious, it's best to address a growing balance early — and to talk with the Treasurer's office or a licensed attorney about your specific timeline.
In many cases, yes. Falling behind on taxes does not automatically mean you lose your home or have to sell it. Depending on your situation, catching up through a payment arrangement, qualifying for a relief program, or resolving the underlying issue may let you stay. Understanding your options early gives you the most room to keep the property.
If you decide selling makes sense, listing with a licensed real estate agent is one path. A traditional sale can work well when the home shows well and you have time for the market process. Any taxes owed are typically settled at closing out of the sale proceeds. An agent can walk you through what to expect.
If the home needs work, or you'd rather not go through repairs and showings, an as-is sale to a direct buyer is another option. It can be faster and simpler, and outstanding taxes are usually handled at closing. Whether it's the right fit depends on your numbers and timeline — we're happy to help you compare it honestly against your other options, with no pressure to choose it.
Payment arrangements and relief programs through the City of Norfolk Treasurer and Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue may help you catch up or reduce what's owed.
Resolving the balance, qualifying for relief, or addressing the underlying issue can let many homeowners stay in their home.
If you decide to sell and have time for the market, a traditional listing may bring the highest price.
If the home needs work or you want speed and simplicity, a direct as-is sale is an option — taxes settle at closing.
Understanding the situation early gives you the most room to choose. There's no rush and no obligation.
Not sure which path fits? Share the basics and we'll help you compare them honestly.
Tell us what's going on with the property. We'll help you understand the paths available in Norfolk — no pressure, no obligation.
Important: SellToHeart is not the City of Norfolk, a law firm, or a tax-advisory service. This page is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. For your specific situation, consult the appropriate official office — such as the City of Norfolk Treasurer or the Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue — or a licensed professional.