You do own the property immediately; you own the right to collect the debt plus interest.
Ownership transfers to you once the sale is finalized, though some states still allow a short redemption period for the previous owner. How the Buying Process Works 19 Risks of Buying Tax Liens how to buy tax liens and deeds
If the owner doesn't pay within a "redemption period" (typically 1–3 years), you may be able to foreclose. You do own the property immediately; you own
: You purchase a "tax lien certificate," which is a claim on the property's tax debt. You do own the property immediately
Buying tax liens and deeds involves acquiring claims against properties with delinquent taxes through local government auctions.