---
title: Why does a property lien not take first position over a mortgage?
description: I was surprised to learn that when an HOA files a lien against an owner's property for failure to pay their HOA fees, the lien does not take precedence over the 1st or 2nd mortgage.
---

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# Why does a property lien not take first position over a mortgage?

| [Budgets & Finance](https://www.condoassociation.com/blog/topic/budgets-finance) |   [Fees, Foreclosures, Delinquencies & Collections](https://www.condoassociation.com/blog/topic/fees-foreclosures-delinquencies-collections) |  

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## What do you think? Question:

I was surprised to learn that when an HOA files a lien against an owner's property for failure to pay their HOA fees, the lien does not take precedence over the 1st or 2nd mortgage. If you obtain a loan to purchase an automobile, take that automobile to a repair shop, and then refuse to pay the mechanic, he can file a lien against your car which is superior to that of the lender's lien. Similarly, if you hire a contractor to perform repairs on your home and then fail to pay him, he can also file a lien against your property which is superior to that of your mortgage lender. Why does this not hold true for HOAs? What can be done to change the law?

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## What do you think? Answers (11)

#### What are your thoughts on this topic?

***Comments and postings are not legal advice**, but are the opinions of our readers. This forum and its contents are being monitored. Please be respectful of each other. *  
  

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### [How do liens work in the state of Florida when filed against me?](https://www.condoassociation.com/blog/tabid/19257/bid/17700/How-do-liens-work-in-the-state-of-Florida-when-filed-against-me.aspx)

### [HOA board terrorized by "hard to handle" delinquent owner](https://www.condoassociation.com/blog/tabid/19257/bid/13914/HOA-board-terrorized-by-hard-to-handle-delinquent-owner.aspx)

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