What type of lien is superior to any other lien and is placed on all properties at the beginning of the year?

The property tax lien is indeed the correct choice because it holds a superior position over other types of liens in the hierarchy of claims against property. This lien is automatically placed on all properties by local governments at the beginning of the year to ensure the collection of property taxes owed.

Property tax liens take precedence over all other liens, including mechanics liens and judgment liens. This means that if a property owner fails to pay their property taxes, the local government can put a lien on the property that must be satisfied before other creditors can enforce their claims. The priority of property tax liens is designed to ensure that municipalities can adequately fund essential services such as schools, roads, and emergency services, which are vital to the community's welfare.

Understanding the nature and priority of property tax liens is crucial for anyone involved in real estate, as they can significantly impact property ownership and financial obligations.