Introduction: Selling a Home with a Tax Lien? Here’s How to Clear It First
If you’re a homeowner in Springfield, MO, or surrounding areas like Nixa, Ozark, Republic, or Battlefield, and you have a tax lien on your property, you might think selling is impossible. However, there are legal ways to remove a tax lien before selling your home—ensuring a smooth, hassle-free transaction.
This guide will walk you through proven strategies to clear your tax lien so you can move forward with selling your home.
What is a Tax Lien & Why Does It Prevent a Sale?
A tax lien is a legal claim placed on your property by the government due to unpaid property taxes. Until it’s cleared, the lien must be satisfied before selling.
Why Can’t You Sell a Home with a Tax Lien?
- The lien gives the government priority over the proceeds of the sale.
- Most buyers and lenders won’t proceed unless the lien is removed.
- Title companies won’t issue a clear title, making closing impossible.
📌 Related Blog: How to Sell a Home with Liens in Springfield, MO
How to Remove a Tax Lien Before Selling Your Home
If you want to sell your home fast and without complications, here are the best ways to remove a tax lien before listing your property:
1. Pay Off the Tax Debt in Full ✅ (Fastest & Best Option)
- Contact your local tax authority (Springfield, Greene County, or surrounding counties) to get a payoff amount.
- Pay the lien in full, and request a Lien Release Certificate.
2. Negotiate a Tax Lien Settlement
- Some counties offer settlement programs where you can negotiate to pay less than the full amount.
- Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue or your local tax office to explore settlement options.
📌 Local Tax Offices to Contact:
- Greene County Tax Collector – 940 N Boonville Ave Room 107 Springfield, MO 65802
- (417) 868-4036
- [email protected]
- Christian County Tax Collector:
- 100 W. Church, Rm. 101 Ozark, MO 65721
- (417) 582-4330
- www.christiancountycollector.com
3. Set Up a Payment Plan to Remove the Lien
- Many homeowners in Springfield, Nixa, and Republic can negotiate a payment plan to clear their lien while selling.
- As long as the government agrees to subordinate the lien, you may still be able to sell your home.
4. Sell Your Home to an Investor Who Will Pay the Lien (Fastest Sale Option)
- Real estate investors in Springfield, MO, and surrounding cities often buy homes with tax liens.
- The investor pays off the lien at closing, so you don’t have to.
📌 Related Blog: The Pros and Cons of Selling Your Home Without a Realtor
5. Use a Short Sale (If You Owe More Than the Home’s Value)
- If your tax debt is more than what your home is worth, a short sale may be an option.
- This requires approval from the lienholder and could take longer.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay Off Your Tax Lien?
If a tax lien remains unpaid, your property could be at risk of tax lien foreclosure. This means:
- The county may sell your home at a tax auction.
- You could lose all equity in your home.
- Your credit score may be impacted, affecting future homeownership.
📌 Related Blog: What is a Tax Lien & How Does It Affect Your Home?
Final Thoughts: Clear Your Lien & Sell Without Issues
If you’re in Springfield, Nixa, Ozark, Republic, or Battlefield, MO, and need to sell your home, removing your tax lien is the first step. Whether you pay it off, negotiate, or sell to an investor, taking action now can prevent foreclosure and give you a fresh start.
Don’t wait until foreclosure happens—find a solution today!
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