You can put a lien on that property so that if they ever sell or refinance the property you might get paid. To do this, you first need an Abstract of Judgment.In California, if you're the person owed money (the creditor), you can place a judgment lien on the debtor's real estate or personal property. Fill out form DE-310 , Petition to Determine Succession to Real Property. You can use this form for clearing title to personal and real property, too. If your judgment is against a business, you can record a lien with the Secretary of State's office. To do this, fill out a JL-1. This acts as an automatic lien on the property and the property normally cannot be transferred without paying off the lien. When is Probate Required in California? After recording, you have a judgment lien on any real estate held in the judgment debtor's name in that county.