Can I Sell My House With a Lien in Alabama?
Usually yes. A lien does not stop a sale, it just has to be paid before the buyer gets clear title, and that payment normally comes out of the proceeds at closing. If the liens add up to more than the sale price, the sale gets complicated and may require the lienholder to agree to accept less.
Common liens on Birmingham houses include mortgage balances, unpaid property taxes, contractor liens, judgment liens, and city fines attached to the property.
The title search finds them all. That is the point of the search, and it happens before closing so there are no surprises on signing day.
At closing, the closing attorney or title company pays each lienholder from the sale money and records the deed. Whatever is left is yours.
This is general information, not legal advice. If you have a lien you do not recognize or a dispute over the amount, talk to an Alabama attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I do not know what liens are on my house?
Most owners do not. The title search turns them up, and we go through the list with you.
What if the liens are more than the house is worth?
Then the numbers may not work without a lienholder agreeing to take less. We will tell you that plainly instead of wasting your time.
Do I pay the lien out of pocket?
No, in a normal sale it is deducted from the proceeds at closing.
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