Whether you’re a new homeowner or you’ve owned your property for years, there’s an understanding around the importance of paying off your mortgage loan. Mortgage liens as a result of nonpayment can put your home at risk, so understanding what they are and how to remove them is crucial
In real estate, a lien is an asset bound by contract which acts as collateral for a company or individual in the case an agreement isn’t fulfilled.
When you sign a contract for a mortgage loan, many lenders use the home being purchased for collateral. If the borrower defaults on the loan, the home may be confiscated by the mortgage company. A lien mortgage applies directly through your lender, whereas tax liens are involuntary through the state.
To avoid foreclosure, it’s vital to handle liens on a property. One of the first ways to satisfy a mortgage lien is by paying off the debt owed on the home. You can work with your lender to form a payment plan or negotiate for a partial payment offer.
If the lien on your home is of no fault of your own, as a property owner, you can take your case to court to legally have the lien removed. This may be most ideal if you’ve already paid off the debt owed on the home and there was a payment mix up or if your lender used underhanded means.
If you have a lien on your home and need help paying money owed on the property, consider speaking with your lender to form the best plan of action to have it removed.
Terese Ferrara is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and has been a partner with the Goss | Ferrara Real Estate Team. She and her husband raised their two daughters in San Jose, where she successfully continues to build her real estate career.
After earning a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University, she went on to teach in the San Jose Unified School District for 9 years. Transitioning to real estate was a logical choice, utilizing her patient demeanor to educate all levels of buyers and sellers. Knowledge and experience demonstrate her vested interest in delivering the highest level of care and professionalism to every client. She consistently strives to exceed her client’s expectations throughout the entire real estate transaction and remains a trusted advisor long after each close.
As a board member on KW Bay Area Estates’ Associate Leadership Council (ALC), she aids in support of culture and professional development strategies for over 180 associates. Terese is also a Director for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation, which supports community service initiatives in Silicon Valley.
Terese is the consummate real estate professional dedicated to providing unparalleled service to her clients through ongoing training and education, keeping her on top of the dynamic market and latest real estate trends. Her high-touch approach coupled with honesty and integrity support her commitment to her client’s real estate needs.