Legal and Financial Protection
What if I receive a lien notice on an inherited property?
Short answer
A lien must be paid or resolved before clear title can pass. Types of liens: mortgage, property tax, mechanic's lien, IRS tax lien, judgment lien. Order a preliminary title report to identify all liens. Some liens can be negotiated or disputed. A…
What this usually means
A lien must be paid or resolved before clear title can pass. Types of liens: mortgage, property tax, mechanic's lien, IRS tax lien, judgment lien. Order a preliminary title report to identify all liens. Some liens can be negotiated or disputed. A real estate attorney can advise on each type.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.