Can I Sell a House with a Lien on It in Texas?
Selling a house in Texas can already be stressful, but when there’s a lien involved, things can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s a tax lien, unpaid contractor, or a judgment against you, many property owners in Farmers Branch don’t realize they can still sell—even with title issues.
This guide explains how liens affect your home sale in Texas, what your options are, and how you can still move forward quickly—even if the property has legal or financial complications.
What Is a Lien on a Property in Texas?
A lien is a legal claim that gives a creditor the right to be paid from your home’s sale. It doesn’t mean you have to sell—but it does affect your ability to transfer a clear title to the next buyer.
In Texas, some of the most common types of property liens include:
- Mortgage liens – from your lender
- Tax liens – issued by the county or IRS for unpaid property taxes (learn more about tax liens in Texas)
- Mechanic’s liens – from contractors or vendors who haven’t been paid
- Judgment liens – court-ordered debt collection (see Texas lien laws)
- HOA liens – from missed homeowners association dues (see HOA enforcement laws here)
Even if you weren't aware of the lien, it will show up during the sale process—and it must be handled before closing.
Can You Sell a House with a Lien in Texas?
Yes, but you can’t close the sale in Texas until the lien is resolved. That means it either needs to be paid in full, negotiated down, or formally addressed through a legal or financial process.
Most Texas title companies won’t issue title insurance or allow closing to move forward until the lien is taken care of. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
How a Lien Impacts the Sale of a Home in Texas
A lien on your Texas property will show up during the standard title search. Once discovered, it will need to be resolved for the sale to proceed.
Here’s what happens if a lien is found during a home sale in Texas:
- Buyers may walk away if they’re unsure how it’ll be handled
- The title company won’t allow the transaction to close
- The process stalls until the lien is either paid off or resolved
If you’re selling a house with a lien in Texas, it’s smart to know about the issue ahead of time and have a plan in place.
4 Ways to Sell a House with a Lien in Texas
1. Pay Off the Lien Before Listing
If you’re financially able, resolving the lien in advance will make it easier to market your home and close without surprises.
2. Use the Sale Proceeds to Pay the Lien
Many homeowners in Texas choose to handle the lien at closing. The lien amount is deducted from your sale proceeds and paid directly to the creditor by the title company.
3. Negotiate a Reduced Payoff
Some creditors are open to settlement offers. If you’re behind or at risk of foreclosure, they may accept a lower amount—especially with help from a real estate attorney or advisor in Texas.
4. Sell to a Cash Buyer Who Buys Houses with Liens
Local cash buyers in Texas, like TX Home Buying Pros, often purchase homes with liens or other complications. They’re familiar with title issues and can work with the title company to ensure a smooth closing—even if the lien isn’t resolved upfront.
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How to Check If Your Texas Property Has a Lien
Many sellers in Texas don’t realize they have a lien until the title company finds it. To get ahead of the issue:
Order a title search through a Texas title company
Ask a real estate attorney in Texas to review your property’s status
What Happens If You Hide a Lien?
In Texas, sellers are legally required to disclose any known issues—including liens. If you try to hide the problem, you risk:
- The sale being canceled
- Legal action by the buyer
- Financial penalties
Buyers in Texas will work with you to resolve the lien—as long as you’re upfront and proactive.
Tips for Selling a House with a Lien in Texas
- Talk to a title company in Texas before listing
- Organize any documents related to the lien
- Be transparent with buyers and agents
- Work with professionals who understand title problems
- Consider selling to a cash buyer if you want to avoid delays
Yes—You Can Sell a House with a Lien in Texas
Liens create extra steps, but they don’t stop you from selling. Whether you pay it off, settle it, or work with a local buyer who understands these situations, there’s a way to move forward.
Need Help Selling a House with a Lien in Texas?
At TX Home Buying Pros, we buy houses across Texas—even with tax liens, contractor liens, HOA fees, or other title problems. You don’t need to clean, repair, or fix anything.
Just fill out the form or call us at (214) 296-2343 and let’s talk through your options. There’s no obligation, just help from someone local who understands what you’re dealing with.
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We buy houses with liens throughout Texas and its surrounding neighborhoods, including:
We help homeowners sell houses with liens all across Texas — from major metro areas to small rural towns. Whether you're in Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, El Paso, or anywhere in between, we’re ready to step in and help you move forward.
We also work in surrounding counties and neighborhoods across the state, including cities near:
Harris County (like Pasadena, Baytown, and Spring)
Bexar County (including Converse, Live Oak, and Helotes)
Travis County (such as Pflugerville, Manor, and Lakeway)
Tarrant County (including Arlington, North Richland Hills, and Mansfield)
Collin and Denton Counties (from Plano to Lewisville to Little Elm)
If your city or neighborhood isn’t listed, that’s okay — we buy houses with liens throughout the entire state of Texas. Just reach out and we’ll let you know if we can help.