Lien
A monetary claim against property that secures payment of a debt. It can be voluntary, like a mortgage, or involuntary, like a tax or judgment lien.
A lien is a charge against property that secures payment of a debt or obligation. A voluntary lien is created by agreement, such as a mortgage. An involuntary lien arises by operation of law, such as a property tax lien, a judgment lien, or a construction lien.
Liens are a type of encumbrance. Priority among liens usually follows the order of recording, but Texas property tax liens take priority ahead of most other liens.
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- Mortgage
A security instrument that pledges real property as collateral for a debt. In Texas, lenders use a deed of trust to play this role.
- Encumbrance
Any claim, lien, or restriction on a property that affects its title or use, such as a mortgage, easement, lien, or deed restriction.
- Mechanic's and Materialman's Lien
A Texas lien that secures payment to a contractor or supplier for labor or materials furnished to improve real property.
- Release of Lien (Satisfaction)
The document a lender records when a loan is fully paid, releasing the deed-of-trust lien from the property.
This definition is Texas real estate exam-prep education, not legal, tax, or professional advice. Verify current rules against the official source before relying on them for a real transaction. Back to the full glossary.