A free, printable memory helper from CinnaPrep's real-estate exam library.
✦ Encumbrance = ANY burden on title (money or non-money)
✦ Liens (money): tax, mortgage, mechanic's, judgment
✦ Non-money: easements, encroachments, deed restrictions, licenses
✦ Priority: property-tax & special-assessment liens jump the line
✦ Everything else usually ranks by recording date — 'first in time, first in right'