In one sentence
A search of court and public records for judgments against the borrower or guarantor that could attach to property or reveal risk.
The longer version
Judgment and lien searches surface money judgments, tax liens, and similar encumbrances tied to the parties. Findings must be resolved, bonded, or accounted for before closing.
These searches are standard diligence, and clearing what they surface can add time, so they are ordered early.
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