After completing renovations on the Whitakers’ lake house, my father was denied the $5,300 they owed him. Rather than arguing, he filed a mechanic’s lien against their property. Days later, a real estate agent arrived with potential buyers and discovered that the unresolved debt could prevent the sale from proceeding.
When Mr. Whitaker demanded an explanation, my father calmly presented a completion certificate bearing the homeowner’s signature. The document confirmed that the work had been completed satisfactorily and payment remained outstanding. Additional records, including signed change slips, supported his claim. His retired attorney friend, Ed Kowal, explained the lien and contractual obligations.
Realizing the sale was at risk, Mrs. Whitaker produced her checkbook and paid $6,140, covering the original debt, late fees, and filing expenses. My father verified the payment and arranged for the lien’s release. Before leaving, he proudly remarked that the third-floor trim represented some of his finest craftsmanship.
Eleven days later, the property sold. The new owners subsequently hired my father to paint their boathouse, paid half upfront, and treated him respectfully. When I asked why he had kept his plan private, he explained that experience had taught him to use time wisely. That spring, he hired an assistant while continuing to take pride in his work.