A lien is best described as what type of interest?

A lien is best described as an encumbrance that "runs with the land" because it represents a legal claim or hold on a property, typically as security for a debt or obligation. This means that the lien remains attached to the property even if the ownership changes. When a lien exists, it can affect the transferability of the property, as prospective buyers must deal with the existing lien before they can obtain clear title.

The "runs with the land" aspect emphasizes that the lien is associated with the property itself rather than the individual owner—when the property is sold, the lien still binds the new owner. This concept is crucial in real estate transactions, as it ensures that financial obligations tied to the property are honored, regardless of who owns it.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of a lien. Ownership interest pertains to the rights of the owner over the property, which is not applicable to a lien. A non-legal claim does not accurately convey the enforceable nature of a lien, which is recognized by law. Similarly, describing a lien as a financial asset overlooks its role as a claim on property rather than an ownership right or a standalone asset.