HOA fees on a repository property that's had all liens wiped

[Rob Ratch]

I'm looking at a few lots in a county repository. Once they go into this repository, they are supposed to be free and clear of all liens, but in researching them, the HOA has told me there are 3 years of dues owed on the lots. The dues on the lots add up to more than the purchase price.

So my question is, how can the HOA still have a claim to the property, but the original lender's claim can be wiped?

I'm not sure this is an actual HOA... They call it a country club, and charge annual dues on improved and unimproved lots.