📅 2026 Update: Key Changes in Property Law and Liens

Since the original article on liens was published, there have been several important updates affecting property law. These changes impact how liens, mortgages, and related financial transactions are handled. The information below highlights the most relevant updates in the context of property ownership and transactions.

The earlier article continues further down the page, providing a foundation for understanding these new developments.

🏦 Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Final Rule

On October 24, 2026, a new rule for the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) was released. This rule is effective from April 1, 2024, with compliance dates staggered for January 1, 2026, and January 1, 2027.

  • 📈 Regulatory Changes: The CRA final rule includes updates to performance tests that evaluate how well financial institutions meet the credit needs of low- and moderate-income communities.

📊 Changes to Mortgage Insurance Requirements

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) made significant updates in June 2026.

  • 🏡 Loan Limits and Premiums: FHA loan limits were increased, and mortgage insurance premiums were lowered to make these loans more accessible for borrowers. This change is crucial for those looking to secure financing with lower upfront costs.

💰 Adjustments in Guarantee Fees

In 2024, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac adjusted their guarantee fees.

  • 💵 Current Fees: The average guarantee fee for single-family loans across these agencies was reported at 0.65% of the loan amount per year. Understanding these fees is essential for borrowers looking to manage their overall mortgage costs.

📅 Exemption Threshold Updates

There was a significant update to the Truth in Lending Act as of December 18, 2024.

  • 🔍 Higher-Priced Mortgage Loans: The exemption threshold for certain first-lien higher-priced mortgage loans increased to $2.717 billion from $2.640 billion. This affects loans finalized in 2025 and may impact eligibility for various loan programs.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • 🏦 The CRA final rule includes new performance tests for lending to low-income communities.
  • 💰 FHA loan limits were raised, and mortgage insurance premiums were lowered in 2026.
  • 📊 The average guarantee fee for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans is 0.65%.
  • 📅 The exemption threshold for higher-priced mortgage loans increased to $2.717 billion.

💡 Tips for Navigating Liens and Mortgages

Reviewing your unique situation with an attorney is essential for understanding your rights and options regarding liens and property laws.

🏠 Understand Your Loan Limits

FHA loans offer updated limits that may benefit you. Check the current limits to see if you qualify for a more favorable loan.

🔍 Review Guarantee Fees

Be aware of the average guarantee fees set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Knowing these costs can help you budget more effectively for your mortgage.

📅 Keep Track of Compliance Dates

For the Community Reinvestment Act, remember the compliance dates of January 1, 2026, and January 1, 2027. These dates are crucial for financial institutions to meet regulatory requirements.

📊 Check Exemption Thresholds

Stay informed about the threshold changes for higher-priced mortgage loans. This knowledge can assist in determining your eligibility for various loan products.

🏦 Monitor Mortgage Insurance Premiums

With the recent reduction in FHA mortgage insurance premiums, it may be a good time to evaluate your financing options. Lower premiums can lead to significant savings over the life of your loan.

🏆 Mortgage Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section highlights mortgage services that can assist with property transactions and lien-related issues. The list is based on Trustpilot ratings as of October 2026. Ratings may vary as more reviews come in, and it's important to consider that unhappy customers often leave more feedback.

🥇 1. NewDay USA

NewDay USA has been rated 4.5. Known for its focus on VA loans, it also emphasizes good customer service. However, some reviewers mention that processing times can vary, which may affect timely closings.

🥈 2. loanDepot

loanDepot holds a Trustpilot score of 4.0. It is recognized for its online mortgage applications and digital technology, making it easier for customers to navigate the mortgage process. However, some users report concerns regarding customer service responsiveness.

🥉 3. Rocket Mortgage

Rocket Mortgage has a rating of 4.4. It is known for providing a fully online mortgage experience and quick pre-approvals. Despite its strengths, some customers have noted issues with processing delays and paperwork errors.

4️⃣ West Capital Lending

West Capital Lending has a score of 4.6. This service is recognized for its competitive financing options and expert guidance throughout the loan process. A caveat for potential borrowers is the limited variety of loan products available.

5️⃣ AmeriSave Mortgage Corporation

AmeriSave Mortgage Corporation boasts a rating of 4.5. It is known for offering affordable rates and a wide variety of loan options. Reviewers do point out that customer service responsiveness could be improved.

🆓 Free Resources for Borrowers

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) provide free resources. The CFPB offers guidance on mortgage costs, while the NCRC advocates for fair lending practices, especially for low- and moderate-income borrowers.

🔎 Factors to Compare When Choosing a Mortgage Service

  • 💵 Overall fees and costs
  • 🏡 Types of loans available
  • ⏳ Processing times
  • 📞 Customer service responsiveness
  • 📊 Online tools for applications

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is a lien?

A lien is a legal claim against a property, typically used as collateral for a debt. It gives the lender the right to take possession of the property if the borrower fails to repay the loan.

💡 How do I remove a lien from my property?

To remove a lien, you generally need to pay off the debt associated with it. After the debt is settled, the lien holder must file a release of lien with the appropriate government office.

📅 What are the consequences of ignoring a lien?

Ignoring a lien can lead to foreclosure or loss of property. The lien holder may take legal action to recover the owed amount, impacting your ownership rights.

🔍 How can I find out if there is a lien on my property?

You can check for liens by searching public records at your local county clerk's office or online property databases. Title companies can also provide detailed reports on any existing liens.

🏦 Are there different types of liens?

Yes, there are various types of liens, including mortgage liens, tax liens, and mechanic's liens. Each type has specific implications based on the debt owed.

📊 How do liens affect mortgage applications?

Liens can complicate mortgage applications. Lenders may require all liens to be resolved before approving a loan, as they could affect the property's marketability and value.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Property Law

Recent court rulings have addressed various issues regarding property law and liens, impacting how these matters are handled in practice.

For more information, you can browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





In common law, a lien is a form of security interest which is granted to cover a particular item of real property. A lien is used to secure the loan requirements outlined in a debt contract; the lien acts as a source of collateral to secure the payment of debt or performance of some obligation. 

Liens are legal claims that effectively place a "hold" on some form of property. When a lien is placed on real or personal property it creates collateral against any services or financial requirements owed through a debt obligation to another entity or person. Liens are usually present in the following situations: second mortgages and money loaned against a substantial item such as a vehicle. 

The presence of a lien will impede the borrower from selling or transferring the property which carries the lien. Any form of property that carries a lien can be forced into sale by the lender, for the sake of fulfillment of the underlying loan obligation. If the borrower chooses to sell the property, the holder of the lien must be paid before the title is transferred to the buyer.

Liens at a Glance