Nebraska § 40-103 - Homestead; exemption; when inoperative.

Full text of Nebraska Revised Statutes of Nebraska § 40-103 — Homestead; exemption; when inoperative., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 40-103. Homestead; exemption; when inoperative.

The homestead is subject to execution or forced sale in satisfaction of judgments obtained (1) on debts secured by mechanics', laborers', or vendors' liens upon the premises and (2) on debts secured by mortgages or trust deeds upon the premises executed and acknowledged by a claimant.

1. Lien

2. Exceptions

3. Constitutionality

1. Lien

Lack of statutory acknowledgment to an improvement mortgage on homestead does not preclude enforcement of mortgage. Miles Homes, Inc. v. Muhs, 184 Neb. 617, 169 N.W.2d 691 (1969).

Fine and costs imposed for criminal offense create lien on homestead of convict and homestead is subject to sale under execution issued on such judgment for fine and cost. Mancuso v. State, 123 Neb. 204, 242 N.W. 430 (1932).

Married man informing lender that he intended to use borrowed money to pay for homestead is not sufficient to entitle lender to lien. Engaard v. Schmidt, 103 Neb. 369, 171 N.W. 905 (1919).

Purchase money mortgage is valid as against homestead claim. Peterson v. Fisher, 85 Neb. 745, 124 N.W. 145 (1910).

Judgment for alimony is lien on homestead, title whereof is in husband. Best v. Zutavern, 53 Neb. 604, 74 N.W. 64 (1898).

2. Exceptions

A vendor's lien is one of the exceptions to homestead statute. Corn Belt Products Co. v. Mullins, 172 Neb. 561, 110 N.W.2d 845 (1961).

Exceptions are set forth which permit sale of homestead. Ehlers v. Campbell, 159 Neb. 328, 66 N.W.2d 585 (1954).

Exceptions referred to in section 40-117 are mechanics', laborers', and vendors' liens, and mortgages duly executed. Judson v. Creighton, 88 Neb. 37, 128 N.W. 651 (1910).

Provisions of civil code relating to exemptions have no application to property exempt as a homestead. Fox v. McClay, 48 Neb. 820, 67 N.W. 888 (1896).

As in the case of a mortgage, there is no homestead exemption for debts secured by a trust deed, foreclosed in the same manner as a mortgage, and executed and acknowledged by both husband and wife. Travelers Ins. Co. v. Nelson, 4 Neb. App. 551, 546 N.W.2d 333 (1996).

3. Constitutionality

This section neither contravenes 11 U.S.C. sec. 522(f)(1) nor violates Neb. Const., art. I, sec. 3, or art. III, sec. 18. Federal Land Bank of Omaha v. Blankemeyer, 228 Neb. 249, 422 N.W.2d 81 (1988).

Source: official Nebraska text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Nebraska § 40-103

What does Revised Statutes of Nebraska § 40-103 cover?

Section 40-103 ("Homestead; exemption; when inoperative.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Nebraska, the codified statutory law of Nebraska. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Nebraska § 40-103?

A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Nebraska § 40-103" (Nebraska). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Nebraska law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Nebraska official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Nebraska attorney.

How does Nebraska § 40-103 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Nebraska can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Nebraska.