title: Free and clear
text: # Free and clear
  
  In property law, the term free and clear refers to ownership without legal encumbrances, such as a lien or mortgage. For example: a person owns a house free and clear if he has paid off the mortgage and no creditor has filed a lien against it.
  
  Lately there has been a resurgence in interest for free and clear properties despite being an investment form that has been prevalent from early on. Investing in free and clear properties removes the need for a bank loan entirely. Over 35% of all properties in the United States are owned free and clear with no outstanding mortgages or liens.
  
  