Which lien has the highest priority when it comes to property?

The real property tax lien has the highest priority among the various types of liens. This is because tax liens are considered superior to all other liens. When property taxes are owed, the government has the first claim to any proceeds from the sale of the property, ensuring that tax debts are paid before all others. In the event of a foreclosure, real property tax liens take precedence, allowing the taxing authority to recover owed taxes regardless of any mortgages or other financial obligations associated with the property.

Understanding the hierarchy of liens is crucial for real estate professionals, as it impacts buyers and sellers during transactions, especially in cases of delinquency or property transfer. While other liens like mortgage liens, judgment liens, and contractor liens serve to secure debts, they follow the precedence established by tax liens.