If you’ve discovered past liens on your property in Orlando, you’re not alone. Whether you’re trying to sell, refinance, or simply get a clean title, unresolved liens can delay — or completely block — your plans. The good news? In Florida, you have several legal and financial options to clear or resolve liens, even if they’re years old.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- What liens are and how they impact your property
- How to find out if you have a lien in Orange County or other Florida counties
- The steps to remove, pay off, or settle a lien
- How to sell a house with liens
- What to do if you inherited a house with liens
What Is a Property Lien?
A lien is a legal claim against your property by a creditor, contractor, or government entity. It’s used as collateral to ensure that a debt will be paid. When a lien is placed, it becomes part of your property’s title record — meaning it shows up during title searches and can block or delay sales, refinancing, or inheritance transfers.
Common Types of Liens in Florida
- Mortgage liens – From your lender for unpaid home loans
- Tax liens – From the IRS or local tax authorities for unpaid property or income taxes
- Mechanic’s or contractor liens – For unpaid work or renovations
- HOA liens – For unpaid dues in a managed community
- Judgment liens – Resulting from lawsuits or unpaid debts
- Municipal liens – For code violations, unpaid utility bills, or lot maintenance
How to Find Out If There’s a Lien on Your Property in Orlando
In Florida, property liens are public record. Here’s how to check:
1. Search Orange County Records Online
Visit the Orange County Comptroller’s Official Records Search and enter the property address or your name.
2. Order a Title Search
Before selling or refinancing, a title company will run a full title report that shows all open liens.
3. Hire a Real Estate Attorney or Title Company
If you’re unsure how to interpret the documents, a legal professional can guide you.
Can You Sell a House with a Lien in Orlando?
Technically, yes — but not without resolving the lien.
In almost every case, the lien must be paid off, negotiated, or otherwise resolved at closing before the title can transfer to the buyer. Here’s how:
How to Resolve Past Liens on Your Orlando Property
1. Pay the Lien in Full
The most straightforward solution. You’ll receive a Lien Satisfaction document, which should be filed with the county.
2. Negotiate a Payoff or Settlement
Especially with old contractor liens or judgments, you may be able to negotiate a reduced payoff. Many creditors prefer to accept partial payment rather than risk getting nothing.
3. Request a Lien Release
If you’ve already paid but the lien wasn’t released, contact the lienholder and request formal release documentation. You may need to file this yourself.
4. Challenge Invalid or Expired Liens
Some liens may be fraudulent, expired, or improperly filed. A Florida real estate attorney can challenge these and possibly remove them via court order.
What If You Inherited a House with Liens?
If you inherited a property in Orlando and discovered liens after the fact:
- Don’t panic – You may still be able to sell the home
- Work with a probate attorney – They’ll help sort legal obligations
- Negotiate with lienholders – Many will settle for less if probate is involved
- Consider selling to an investor – Some cash buyers will purchase homes with liens in place and handle title resolution themselves
Need to Sell a Property with a Lien in Orlando?
At Frank Jr. Buys Houses, we specialize in buying homes with legal complications, including:
- Outstanding liens
- Tax issues
- Probate or inherited title problems
- Code violations
- HOA disputes
We can often close on a property even with liens still on record, by working with our legal and title partners to settle or clear them at closing — so you don’t have to deal with it all yourself.
Here’s How We Help:
- We handle title searches and payoff coordination
- We cover closing costs and legal filings
- We buy as-is, no repairs needed
- We offer cash, and close in as little as 7 days
Want to find out what we can offer for your Orlando home — even with liens?
Get a no-obligation offer here
Frequently Asked Questions About Property Liens in Orlando
Can I refinance with a lien on my house?
In most cases, no. The lien will need to be resolved before refinancing can proceed.
How long does a lien stay on my property in Florida?
- Judgment liens are valid for 10 years, but can be renewed.
- Tax liens and mechanic’s liens have varying expiration rules.
Always check with a title company or attorney.
What if the lien is against a previous owner?
If a lien was never cleared before you bought the property, you may still be responsible — especially if title insurance wasn’t purchased. This is known as a cloud on title.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Do About Past Liens on Your Property in Orlando?
If you’re dealing with past liens on your property in Orlando, your next steps depend on the type of lien, your timeline, and your goals. Whether you plan to refinance, sell, or just clean up your title record, the sooner you act, the easier it will be to resolve.
And if you’re overwhelmed, facing legal notices, or just want to move on — we can help.
Contact Frank Jr. Buys Houses for a confidential conversation. We handle liens, pay cash, and make the process simple.