North Dakota Subordination of Lien, also known as the Subordination Agreement, is a legal document that changes the priority of an existing lien, typically a mortgage or deed of trust, on a property. This agreement allows a lender or creditor to willingly give up their superior position to another lender or creditor. This is of utmost importance in real estate transactions, especially when a property owner wants to refinance or take out a new loan. In North Dakota, there are several types of Subordination of Lien that can be employed depending on the specific circumstances. These types include: 1. First Lien Subordination: This occurs when the primary mortgage holder agrees to subordinate their lien to another mortgage or creditor. Typically, this is done to allow the property owner to secure additional financing or take out a home equity loan. The first lien holder agrees to a lower priority position, meaning that in case of foreclosure or sale, they will be paid only after the second lien holder is satisfied. 2. Second Lien Subordination: In this scenario, the second mortgage holder voluntarily subordinates their lien to a third party, such as a new lender. This type of subordination is often done when a property owner wants to refinance their first mortgage but still has an outstanding second mortgage. By subordinating the second lien, the property owner can proceed with the refinancing process without having to pay off or consolidate the second mortgage. 3. Intercreditor Agreement: This type of subordination is a contractual agreement made between two or more creditors, typically involving different types of debt. It establishes the rights and priorities of each creditor and determines the order in which they will be repaid if the borrower defaults or files for bankruptcy. An intercreditor agreement is commonly utilized in complex commercial transactions involving multiple lenders, such as mezzanine financing or venture capital deals. In North Dakota, to execute a subordination of lien, all involved parties must sign a written agreement that explicitly states the terms and conditions of the subordination. This agreement is then recorded in the county land records office where the property is located to ensure that it is legally valid and enforceable. It is crucial to consult with a qualified attorney or real estate professional when dealing with subordination of liens in North Dakota, as the process can be complex, and specific requirements must be met to protect the rights and interests of all parties involved. Ready access to legal assistance ensures that the subordination agreement is properly drafted, executed, and recorded, safeguarding the enforceability of the lien priorities and maintaining the integrity of the real estate transaction.