In real estate law, a Lien is a legal claim or encumbrance against property to secure the payment of a debt or obligation. Liens may be voluntary, such as a mortgage, or involuntary, such as a tax lien or judgment lien.
A lien affects the title to property by limiting the owner’s ability to sell or transfer it until the lien is satisfied or released. While all liens are encumbrances, not all encumbrances are liens, as some encumbrances, like easements, do not secure a monetary obligation.
