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How to Find Out if You Have a Lien on Your House in Dallas, Texas




Owning a home comes with various responsibilities, and one of the most crucial is ensuring that there are no unexpected liens on your property. A lien is a legal claim against your home, typically due to unpaid debts or obligations. Understanding how to check for liens on your house in Dallas, Texas, can help you avoid surprises and protect your property. Here’s what you need to know:

1. What is a Lien?

A lien is a legal right or interest that a lender, creditor, or government agency may have on your property. There are various types of liens, including:

  • Mortgage Liens: Placed by your lender to secure a loan.

  • Tax Liens: Imposed by the government if you owe unpaid property taxes.

  • Judgment Liens: Resulting from a court ruling in favor of a creditor.

  • Mechanic’s Liens: Placed by contractors or suppliers who weren’t paid for work done on the property.

Having a lien on your property can prevent you from selling it or refinancing until the debt is resolved.

2. How to Check for Liens on Your Property in Dallas, Texas

If you suspect that a lien may have been placed on your property, here are the key steps to uncover this important information:

Check the Property Title

A title search will reveal whether there are any liens attached to your home. This search can be done by a title company, which will comb through public records to identify any encumbrances. Alternatively, you can perform a basic title search on your own.

  • Visit the Dallas County Clerk's Office website.

  • Look up the Real Property Records section.

  • Search by your property address or name to see if any liens are recorded against your home.

Review Your Mortgage Documents

If you have a mortgage, the lender likely holds a mortgage lien on your property. In addition to the primary mortgage, make sure to check if there are any second mortgages or home equity loans, as these can also result in liens.

Property Tax Liens

Property taxes are a common source of liens. If you’ve missed payments or failed to pay your property taxes, the Dallas County Tax Assessor’s Office may have filed a lien on your property. To check for unpaid taxes and potential tax liens:

  • Visit the Dallas County Tax Assessor's website.

  • Search by your address or account number to verify if there are outstanding tax payments.




Order a Lien Report

For an official and comprehensive view of any liens on your property, consider ordering a lien report from a title company. These reports will provide a detailed list of all recorded liens, including mortgages, unpaid taxes, and judgment liens. This can be especially helpful if you're preparing to sell or refinance your property.

Review Your Credit Report

In some cases, a lien could affect your credit report. If a creditor has filed a lien due to an unpaid debt, it might show up on your credit report. You can request a free report once a year from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at AnnualCreditReport.com.

Consult with a Professional

If you’re still unsure about whether a lien exists, or if you're facing difficulties understanding what you find, it’s advisable to consult with a real estate attorney or NOFA's foreclosure consultant. These professionals can provide expert advice and help you navigate any issues with liens on your property.

3. What Should You Do If You Find a Lien on Your Property?

If you discover that there is a lien on your property, here’s what you can do:

  • Resolve the Debt: In many cases, liens can be cleared by paying off the debt owed. Once paid, the creditor should release the lien, and the county clerk will update the records to reflect that the lien has been removed.

  • Negotiate a Settlement: If you can't pay the full amount, you may be able to negotiate a settlement with the creditor.

  • Seek NOFA's Help: If you’re dealing with multiple liens or a more complex situation, a foreclosure consultant or real estate attorney can help you create a plan to resolve the issue.

4. The Bottom Line

Checking for liens on your property is an essential part of homeownership, especially if you're facing a potential sale or refinance. Whether you perform a title search, review your mortgage documents, or consult with a professional, being proactive in identifying liens can save you time, money, and stress.

If you need help with a lien or foreclosure-related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to The National Overages Finders Alliance. We specialize in foreclosure consulting, excess fund recovery, and can guide you through resolving any liens that might be affecting your property.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation, call us at 866-800-6632.


 
 
 

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