After how many years is a mortgage considered ineffective and void if not paid in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, a mortgage becomes ineffective and void after 15 years of non-payment. This timeframe is significant because it reflects the concept of "adverse possession," where a property can be claimed by someone who has openly and continuously used it without the owner’s permission for a specified duration. Additionally, the 15-year period allows for a reasonable time for the lender to act on defaulted payments. If no action is taken to enforce the mortgage during this period, the mortgage's legal standing diminishes, allowing other claims to potentially take precedence. Understanding this timeline is crucial for real estate professionals, as it highlights the importance of timely action in mortgage management and the legal implications of non-payment.