As of 2022, our office is releasing this information via an Excel spreadsheet and downloadable PDF at no charge to those interested. This list will be updated approximately every Friday afternoon to provide status updates on parcels.

The Greenbook program for 2023 will be active from May 26, 2023 to October 6, 2023 for new bids. If there is interest for a parcel whose bidding window is already open, bids will be accepted for those properties until the window closes. The bid form is located towards the bottom of this page.

Greenbook
Excel with updates - PDF

Please contact the Lake County Clerk’s Tax Department for more information at 847-377-2404 or submit an email to [email protected].

What is the “Greenbook”?
The Greenbook is a list of Lake County owned parcels that is for sale to the public. These parcels were acquired after being foreclosed upon due to unpaid property taxes. All Greenbook property is sold "as-is." The County makes no assertions or guarantees as to the quality of the property, its suitability for development, or the clarity of title. Any concerns about suitability must be directed to either the Lake County permit facility (if unincorporated) or the township office where the property lies.

All taxes billed in the year of sale and prior will be the County's responsibility, unless the property is listed as "tax lien, not deed."

If you’re interested in foreclosed homes, please contact the Lake County Sheriff’s Judicial Sales Team at 847-377-4401 or visit their website.

Why is it called Greenbook?
When the program first started, we didn’t know what to call it. Since the files were kept in a green binder, that was the inspiration for the name.

How do I get a list of all the properties?
The list is available via Excel and PDF links at the top of the page while bidding season is open. These dates change annually, but the program will generally be open towards the end of May/early June to end of September/early October.

How much is the property I’m interested in?
Pricing will vary based off of its assessed value.

Please note: no more than 25 active bids are allowed from any one bidder at any time. The County reserves the right to refuse bids from parties who previously defaulted on a winning bid, or who currently owe delinquent taxes.

What is the process like?
Greenbook protocol states that any property of interest requires a written bid in a sealed envelope with the Parcel Identification Number (PIN) written on the outside mailed to our office or dropped off in person at our office. Minimum bid amounts are recommended, however all bid amounts are considered. If your bid is less than the minimum bid amount, it is strongly recommended to include a letter or note as to why to assist with consideration.

Our office will hold the bid for 30 days after receipt, and then it will be reviewed by administration. After review, an acceptance, rejection, or counteroffer will be sent via mail or email, depending on your preference as stated on your bid form. Please note, if there are too many options selected or if no option is selected, e-mail notification is preferred as this helps notify all parties in a timely manner as USPS mailings can be delayed or lost. Friendly reminder to please check spam and junk folders occasionally if a bid is submitted. If a bid is accepted, further instructions are provided.

How do I place a bid?
Should you move forward with a bid, please fill out this form and mail it to us at:

Lake County Clerk
Tax Redemption Dept, Greenbook Bid with PIN# (include parcel ID number)
18 North County Street 6th Floor
Waukegan, Illinois 60085-4364

Example of envelope could look like this: