You might want to check for liens on your property if you’re planning to list your home for sale. To improve their chances of a smooth transaction, most buyers conduct a formal title search to make ...

Learn how to check a property’s legal history before buying. Avoid liens, disputes, and risks with simple steps. Read more and stay informed today.

A cloud on title is any encumbrance that might invalidate a title to real property or make the title doubtful. The opposite ...

If a property doesn’t have a clear title, it’ll be a lot harder to sell or buy the home, or get a mortgage or homeowners insurance for it. In some cases, you could be responsible for paying a ...

A lien on your house or car title is a bad thing. A lien you didn’t even know was there is even worse. Jeff Somers is a freelancer who has been writing about writing, books, personal finance, and home ...

A mortgage lien is a mortgage lender’s legal right to take legal possession of your home if you fail to pay your debt — a process known as foreclosure. This claim makes your home the collateral that ...

A clear title is a great sign in a real estate transaction. It means the property title has no liens placed on it. Liens or levies from creditors or other parties could threaten your ownership or use ...

Amy Fontinelle is a freelance writer, researcher and editor who brings a journalistic approach to personal finance content. Since 2004, she has worked with lenders, real estate agents, consultants, ...