Visit your local County Recorder or Clerk of Court website; most have free online search tools using the property address or owner's name.
Alex was ready to sell his starter home. He found a buyer, agreed on a price, and was weeks away from closing when his real estate agent called with bad news. A title search had uncovered a "cloud" on the title: an active mechanic’s lien .
Filed by the government (IRS or state) when property or income taxes go unpaid. Visit your local County Recorder or Clerk of
He could offer a settlement to the supplier for a lower amount in exchange for a release of lien .
Alex was confused. He had paid for a kitchen remodel three years ago and had the receipts to prove it. However, while Alex paid the general contractor in full, that contractor never paid the cabinet supplier . Under , the unpaid supplier had the right to file a claim against Alex's property to ensure they got paid—even though Alex had already paid the contractor. A title search had uncovered a "cloud" on
If you are buying property or want to check your own, you can perform a search through:
Alex chose to pay a negotiated settlement. Once the supplier filed a with the county recorder, the "cloud" vanished, and the sale proceeded. What You Need to Know About Liens Alex was confused
Some liens, like certain judgment or tax liens, have a statute of limitations and may expire if not renewed by the creditor.
