Consider a homeowner who stops making mortgage payments. The lending institution can record a claim against the residence. Should the borrower continue to default, the lender gains the authority to initiate foreclosure proceedings and auction the home to satisfy the balance.
Not every lien comes with the property owner's agreement. Involuntary encumbrances are imposed without consent and typically originate from three common scenarios: government tax authorities filing a tax lien for delinquent taxes, tradespeople filing a mechanic's lien for unpaid labor or materials, and courts enforcing a monetary judgment.

