In South Carolina, UCC-1 filings play a crucial role in real estate transactions, primarily serving as a means to protect the interests of lenders and buyers. UCC-1, also known as a Uniform Commercial Code financing statement, is a legal document that allows lenders to assert their rights over a debtor's collateral in the event of default. By filing a UCC-1 form, lenders establish a security interest in personal property, which can include fixtures and other tangible assets associated with real estate. The South Carolina UCC-1 for Real Estate serves as a public notice, notifying potential creditors of the lender's interest in the property. This document is essential during property closings and loan agreements, as it ensures transparency and clarity regarding the financial encumbrances tied to a property. Several types of South Carolina UCC-1 filings are relevant to real estate transactions: 1. UCC-1 Financing Statement: This is the most common type of UCC-1 filing for real estate. It creates a public record of the lender's security interest in personal property related to the real estate, such as equipment, fixtures, inventory, and accounts receivables. 2. Fixture Filing: A fixture is any personal property permanently attached or affixed to the real estate, becoming part of the property. In South Carolina, a separate UCC-1 fixture filing may be needed to ensure the lender's security interest covers fixtures present in the real estate. 3. Agriculture Lien: For real estate transactions involving agricultural property, such as farms or rural land, an agriculture lien UCC-1 filing may be necessary. This filing ensures that the lender's security interest extends to agricultural products and accounts related to the property. 4. Timber and Lumber Lien: In cases where timber or lumber is part of the real estate transaction—such as timberland or properties containing forest resources—a timber and lumber lien UCC-1 filing becomes relevant. This filing ensures the lender's security interest covers the timber or lumber being used as collateral. It is important to note that while UCC-1 filings are essential in real estate transactions, they are typically intended to secure personal property rather than the real estate itself. To establish a mortgage or lien directly on the real estate, other legal instruments like deeds or mortgages are necessary. In summary, the South Carolina UCC-1 for Real Estate is a crucial mechanism to protect lenders and buyers during real estate transactions. Through various types of UCC-1 filings, lenders establish their security interest in personal property associated with real estate, providing notice to potential creditors. This ensures transparency and the protection of financial interests in all parties involved in the transaction.