what is a property lien

A property lien is a legal claim against property granted by a court to a creditor when a debtor doesn't pay their debts. Liens can be general or specific, and voluntary or involuntary. Specific types of liens include tax liens, judgment liens, and mechanic’s liens. Liens can be attached to real property, such as a home, or personal property, such as a car or furniture. Liens limit what the owner can do with an asset, as creditors are given a stake in the property to compensate for what is owed to them. Liens can be removed by making payment arrangements or settling debts