To ensure a proper payoff, sellers or closing agents must contact the lien holder or their attorney for an official payoff statement. This statement outlines the final payoff amount and includes details on principal balances, accrued interest, attorney's fees, and administrative costs.
A payoff request allows a third party to receive the current balance due to release a lien or facilitate a business transfer (bulk sale transfer or liquor license). To release a lien or facilitate a bulk sale transfer, businesses must be in good standing to receive a payoff request.
Ing to California State Law, documents can only be viewed in the Clerk Recorder office. You will be able to view the images of recorded documents involving your name to find out if a lien has been placed against you or if a recorded lien has been released.
How do I request a payoff letter? To get a payoff letter, ask your lender for an official payoff statement. Call or write to customer service or make the request online. While logged into your account, look for options to request or calculate a payoff amount, and provide details such as your desired payoff date.
Generally, a written contract isn't required in California to be able to file a mechanics lien. The only exception is a design professional who must have a written contract with the property owner.