Texas Real Estate State Practice Exam

What type of lein attaches to one or more specific properties like a mortgage?

1. Encumbrance

2. Specific lein

3. General lein

4. Plat

The correct answer is: Specific lein

The correct answer is specific lien because it directly associates a legal claim or right to a particular property or properties as collateral for a debt or obligation. In real estate, when a lender provides a mortgage to a borrower, that mortgage becomes a specific lien on the property that secures the loan. This means that the lien is tied specifically to that individual property, and in the event of default, the lender has the right to take action against that particular property to satisfy the debt. In contrast, an encumbrance is a broader term that refers to any claim or liability against a property, which may not necessarily be financial in nature and can include easements or restrictions. A general lien, on the other hand, attaches to all of a debtor's assets and properties, regardless of their location or type, making it less specific. The term "plat" refers to a map that outlines the divisions of land and does not pertain to types of liens at all. Therefore, the specificity of the lien being tied to one or more specific properties is what makes the answer specific lien correct.