Why do you want to make such an extreme case? what_a_disasta
Unless it is the end of the world a person who only has taxes and insurance to pay is in the drivers seat. Especially if they stay away from redevelopement zones and freeways.Even if the house gets taken by “emininet domain” the owner gets paid.
“The idea of owning a home ‘free and clear’ in the US is not based in reality.”
The idea of being free isn’t either but I don’t care to quit breathing.

BTW when the U.S took over California after the Mexican American war, Mexican land owners kept possesion of their lands,by treaty. I hope they return the favor.