What is a lien?

A lien is a legal right or interest that a lender has in a borrower's property, granted until the debt obligation is satisfied. This means that if the borrower fails to repay the loan, the lender has the ability to take possession of the property to recover the owed amount. Liens are commonly associated with mortgages, as they secure the lender's interest in the property being financed, ensuring that the lender can recover funds in the event of default.

Understanding this concept is essential in the realm of mortgage lending and real estate transactions, as it plays a crucial role in defining the rights and obligations of both borrowers and lenders. A lien is not a payment plan or an insurance policy; it specifically pertains to a creditor’s claim over an asset. Additionally, while mortgages themselves are a type of lien, referring specifically to the legal instrument used to secure the loan, a lien encompasses a broader category of claims that can include various forms of debt beyond just mortgage loans.