Let's say you owe $12,000 in property taxes (on your house) and your property sold at a Tax Deed sale for $140,000. The Government will take $12,000 for the taxes owed. So what happens to the remaining $128,000? It should go to you, but will end up with the Government if you don't collect it in a timely manner.
$140,000 sale price - $12,000 property taxes owed = $128,000 Your Money!