Navigating the Challenges: How to Sell a House with a Lis Pendens

11-20-2024 09:38 AM - By Dillon Munroe
A lis pendens is a legal notice that is filed with the county clerk's office when a dispute over real property arises. It serves as a warning to potential buyers that there may be issues with the property's title or ownership and that they should proceed with caution. While a lis pendens can complicate the process of selling a house, it is not necessarily a deal-breaker. In this blog post, we will discuss what a lis pendens is, how it can impact the sale of a house, and strategies for selling a house with a lis pendens.
Man Holding Pen Explaining Documents

What is a Lis Pendens?

First, let's define what a lis pendens is and how it is filed. A lis pendens is a legal notice that is filed with the county clerk's office by someone who has an interest in a piece of real property and is involved in a dispute over it. This could be a homeowner, a potential buyer, or even a government agency. The purpose of the lis pendens is to put potential buyers on notice that there may be issues with the property's title or ownership. The filing party must have an interest in the property and a case or action pending or contemplated in good faith.

Selling a House with a Lis Pendens

The impact of a lis pendens on the sale of a house can vary depending on the specific circumstances. In some cases, it may simply be a minor inconvenience that can be easily resolved. In others, it may make it difficult or even impossible to sell the house. It is important to consult with a real estate attorney to understand the specific issues related to your case.
When selling a house with a lis pendens, the legal process can be complicated. The first step is to consult with a real estate attorney to understand the specific issues related to the lis pendens and the potential impact on the sale of the house. The attorney can also help to negotiate with the other party and resolve the dispute. It is important to be transparent with potential buyers about the lis pendens and to provide them with all relevant information.

How to Sell a House with a Lis Pendens

In order to sell a house with a lis pendens, it is important to have a clear and detailed marketing strategy. This may include targeting specific buyers who are familiar with the process of buying a house with a lis pendens, or highlighting any unique features of the house that make it stand out from others on the market. Additionally, being transparent with potential buyers about the lis pendens and providing them with all relevant information can help to build trust and increase the chances of a successful sale.
Negotiating with potential buyers can also be challenging when selling a house with a lis pendens. It is important to be upfront about the potential issues and to provide them with all relevant information. In some cases, it may be necessary to offer a lower price or to make other concessions in order to close the sale.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a lis pendens is a legal notice that is filed with the county clerk's office when a dispute over real property arises. While it can complicate the process of selling a house, it is not necessarily a deal-breaker. By understanding the specific issues related to the lis pendens, consulting with a real estate attorney, and having a clear and detailed marketing strategy, it is possible to sell a house with a lis pendens. However, it is important to keep in mind that each case is unique and it is recommended to consult with a attorney before taking any step.

Dillon Munroe