What is an upset bid?
In a North Carolina judicial sale — including tax-foreclosure sales — the highest bid at the courthouse doesn't win outright. It opens a 10-day window during which anyone can "upset" (outbid) it by filing a higher bid with the court. Every qualifying upset bid restarts a fresh 10-day window, so a property can change leading bidders several times before the sale is confirmed.
Minimum next bid calculator
That bid is below the statutory minimum — the clerk can't accept it.
Amounts round up to the whole dollar. Informational only — confirm the current bid and deadline with the clerk before filing.
The 10-day clock
- The window runs 10 days from when the sale report or the latest upset bid is filed.
- If the last day lands on a weekend or court holiday, the deadline rolls to the next business day.
- File in person with the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where the property sits, before the close of business (5:00 PM) — with your deposit.
- Form AOC-CV-414 is the official upset-bid form.
Frequently asked
How much do I have to raise the bid?
By 5% of the current high bid or $750, whichever is greater. On a $10,000 bid that's $750 (floor); on a $100,000 bid it's $5,000 (5%).
What deposit do I need?
The greater of $750 or 5% of your full upset bid, posted with the clerk in cash or certified funds. It counts toward the price if you win, and is at risk if you win and then fail to close.
Does the window really restart every time?
Yes — each qualifying upset bid starts a fresh 10-day period. Sales are only confirmed after a window passes with no new upset bid.
Where do I file?
With the Clerk of Superior Court in the county of the property, in person, before 5:00 PM on the final day. Call the clerk's special-proceedings division to confirm the current high bid and deadline first.