I updated a house for a family member who sold the house. I was to be paid once the closing proceeds were distributed. The family member now won't pay me. I am not a licensed contractor but I had several subcontractors perform work for me and I paid them personally. I also did a lot of work on the house myself and kept records of material and labor costs. I don't think I need to be a licensed contractor to perform "home improvements." I see myself as simply a laborer who helped a family member with repairs and expected to be paid after closing. I just want to know what legal rights I have to recoup my expenses through filing a mechanic's lien.