Legal protections vary by transaction. Do not assume every vacant-land loan is governed by residential mortgage rules. If you receive a default or foreclosure notice, promptly consult a qualified attorney.

A useful document folder

Keep your signed agreement, real estate lien note, deed and deed of trust, payment history, tax notices, advertisements, correspondence and records of promised work. Use the county clerk’s official website to locate recorded deeds and the Comptroller directory above to locate tax offices.