How To Find Out If There’s a Lien on Your House—Before It Wrecks Your Home Sale

You might think you already know about any liens on a property you already own. However, the fact is they can lurk beneath your radar and pop up at the most inopportune times.Like when you're getting ready to sell your place, and a search of public records uncovers the lien.This can be very bad news, resulting in delays in selling your home or, worse, throwing a wrench into the whole deal. The good news is that finding out if there are liens on your property is simple—and by finding out early, you can make sure it won't hinder selling your home, whenever that takes place.Here's how to find out if there is a lien on a property—plus, how to do a property lien search by address.What is a lien on a property?In the most basic terms, a lien is a legal claim against your property because of an unpaid debt. When a lien is attached to your home, it gives a creditor or unpaid party the right to a portion of the home’s value if it’s sold. In most cases, you can’t sell or refinance until the lien is resolved.There are three main types of property liens:Mechanic's or contractor liens: These arise when homeowners don’t pay contractors or subcontractors for services rendered or materials provided...