Glossary of Real Estate Terms

Glossary

Below are glossary of terms most commonly used during a real estate transaction.

A

• Acceptance
  The time at which an offer to purchase is accepted. The fact that it was accepted must be relayed to the person that made an offer in order for all parties to be bound to the contract.
• Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)
  A mortgage whose interest rate over the life of the loan is not necessarily the same as the original interest rate at the loan inception. Rate changes may go up or down and are usually tied to an economic indicator and a time period. The person getting the mortgage should check to see if these fluctuations have a cap, and make sure they are comfortable with whatever that cap is. Some ARMS are convertible to a fixed interest rate after a period of time.
• Agent
  A person authorized to act on another’s behalf. In real estate, this agent may be a listing agent representing the seller, a selling agent representing the buyer, or a dual agent which means the agent or company may represent both the seller and the buyer. There is a fourth option, a transaction agent (or broker) that represents neither party but helps the transaction to be completed. A real estate agent must be licensed under the laws of their state. An agent must place their license under the direction of a real estate broker. To become a broker, one must take the same courses that a salesperson does, but also complete addition training and meet experience requirements which differ from state to state.
• Amortization
  The repayment of a loan over time. With each payment, there is a the reduction of both principal (the original amount borrowed), plus the interest.
• Amortization Schedule
  This table shows each payment amount for the mortgage, how much of each payment is applied to the principal, how much is applied to the interest, and how much remains to be paid. The table shows each payment until there is a zero balance and the loan is paid in full.
• Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
  Required by the Federal Truth-in-Lending-Act, this details the amount of money financed. The APR is the true cost of borrowing money, which includes the total finance charges added to the principal amount.
• Appraisal
  A professional determination of value. Mortgage companies usually require an appraisal of the property by a licensed, disinterested party before agreeing to loan money on the property. Methods of determining value may be based on many things, such as comparable sales in the area, the cost approach, the income approach, or the highest and best use of the property.
• Appraised Value
  The worth of the property as determined by a professional appraiser.
• Appreciation
  The opposite of depreciation. When the value of a property rises, based on economics and market conditions of the area, it appreciates.
• As Is Condition
  Disclaiming any warranties or representations regarding the condition of a property.
• Asking/Listing Price
  The price a seller is asking in order to sell their property. The price that a buyer offers to purchase the property and the final contract price may be less than, equal to, or even more than the asking/listing price.
• Assessed Value
  The value used by the governing authority (i.e. either the local government or the condominium association) by which to levy a tax or fee on the property owner.

B

• Back-Up Contract
  A contract or offer that is in a secondary position to an already existing contract. This contract shall be elevated to the first position if some condition in the first contract is not met. If the first position contract is consummated, then the second contract is no longer in effect.
• Balloon
  A mortgage where there are payments over a period of time but the final payment is a lump sum which is quite large, compared to the previous payments.
• Bankruptcy
  A condition whereby the courts determine that a person’s indebtedness greatly exceeds their assets and payment of these debts is determined by the courts.
• Broker, also known as Real Estate Broker
  A person duly licensed under the laws of their state to act as an agent for another, and negotiate the purchase, sale and lease of real property. A broker has full authority to run a real estate company, whereas a real estate agent must have their license held under the auspices of a broker.
• Buyer
  A person who purchases real estate.
• Buyer’s Agent / Buyer’s Broker
  A real estate agent, broker, or salesperson, who represents a buyer’s best interests. The commission paid to this buyer’s agent may come from either the seller or the buyer.

C

• Cap
  A maximum allowable. For example, many adjustable rate mortgages have a maximum amount that the interest rate may increase over a certain time period.
• Certificate of Title
  A statement verifying who has the rights and responsibilities of ownership in a property. This may be ascertained by a public record search but does not guarantee that any other parties may not stake a claim to the property. Title insurance protects against claims that may arise against the title.
• Certificate of Occupancy
  A document which must be obtained from the local government which states that the new construction has been inspected and is built in accordance with regulations. The property is therefore ready to be occupied.
• Clear Title
  Ownership that is free of liens, defects and encumbrances, beyond those which the the owner agrees to accept.
• Closing
  The transaction where title passes from seller to buyer and the seller is paid. A settlement statement shows all costs incurred and gained by both parties.
• Closing Costs
  The expenses incurred in obtaining the property and transferring title to the new owner. This may include, but is not limited to attorney’s fees, points, title charges, credit report fee, document preparation fee, mortgage insurance premium, inspections, survey, appraisals, prepayments for property taxes, deed recording fee, and homeowners insurance.
• Code of Ethics
  Set forth by the National Association of Realtors, these are written professional standards that all members are expected to uphold.
• Commitment Letter, also known as a loan commitment
  A written offer by a lender to make a loan by a particular date under certain conditions. A buyer has more clout with a seller if he submits a letter of loan commitment from his lender to the seller at the same time that he submits his offer to purchase to the seller than a buyer who has not even applied for the loan yet.
• Common Areas
  The space that is shared among all property owners. In a condominium that may be the building corridors, elevators, parking areas, recreational facilities, etc. and in a planned unit development an example of this might be swimming pools or tennis courts.
• Condominium
  Real estate ownership where several owners hold title to different individual units, or parts, of the building and have a shared interest in the common areas.
• Conforming Loan
  A mortgage loan that meets underwriting guidelines for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
• Construction Loan
  A short term loan made to a builder for the purpose of constructing the building. After completion, permanent financing is normally secured.
• Contingency
  A condition that must be met before a contract is legally binding, or before a sale is to be completed. The contingency provides an out or an escape from performing if the condition is not met.
• Conventional loan or conventional mortgage
  A real estate loan, which is not insured by the government agency FHA nor guaranteed by the Veterans Administration. Typically subject to the terms of their particular institution, the conditions may be more flexible, as the lender is not required to follow federal guidelines. The lender looks to the credit of the borrower and the security of the property to insure payment of the debt.
• Convertible ARM
  An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) that can be changed, or converted into a fixed rate mortgage during a specified period and under certain conditions of the loan.
• Conveyance
  The passing or transfer of title from one party to another.
• Counteroffer
  If the receiver of an offer makes any changes to the original offer, it is considered a rejection of the initial offer and becomes a counteroffer.
• Covenant, as in Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, or Restrictive Covenants
  A clause in a written document, such as a mortgage or a deed, that the owner will abide by certain rules and conditions. These are not uncommon in subdivision and are usually intended to maintain the value and integrity of the property.
• Credit Rating
  A standard of measure of a person’s credit worthiness.
• Credit Report
  The official credit history of any individual as complied by a credit bureau. This is used by lenders in determining the size loan a person may, or may not, qualify for.
• Credit Report Fee
  The amount that the person applying for a loan must pay to their lender in order to have the lender obtain their credit history directly from a credit reporting bureau.

D

• Deed
  The document that sellers and buyers sign when transferring title to real estate. It legally transfers the property from the seller to the buyer, and is then recorded by the closing agency in county records.
• Default
  Failure to make payments when due which can result in foreclosure of the mortgaged property. This includes not only monthly mortgage payments but also taxes or any other promise in the original deed.
• Delinquency
  Outstanding past-due mortgage or loan payments.
• Delivery
  The legal transfer of a deed to property by the seller and recorded in the county records.
• Deposit, also called Earnest Money
  A good faith deposit of a sum of money offered by the prospective purchaser at the time of the offer to purchase. These funds are typically deposited into an escrow account and held until the real estate closing takes place. At the closing, the buyer is most often given credit for the earnest money that has already been paid, but it some cases it may be returned to the buyer at closing. These funds may also be returned to the buyer in some cases if the contract on real property doesn’t go through to a final sale.
• Depreciation
  The decline in real estate value due to physical deterioration or lack of updating an older property.
• Discount Points
  Investors typically offer an interest rate with no discount points, but can lower that rate if the buyer is willing to pay an up front fee that will give the investor the same yield. Each discount point is equal to 1% of the loan amount borrowed.
• Distress Sale
  A distress sale occurs when the sellers must sell the property very quickly and are willing to decrease the price as an incentive to potential purchasers.
• Down Payment
  The difference, in dollar amount, between the purchase price and the loan amount.
• Dual Agent
  An agent who represents both the seller and the buyer in a real estate transaction.
• Due Diligence
  The act of best effort of ensuring that all statements about the real property are true.
• Due on Sale Clause
  Language in the mortgage closing agreements that inform the borrower that if they allow their loan to be assumed or transferred in any way, the lender has the right to demand the balance in full.

E

• Earnest Money, also called Deposit
  Funds given by the buyer and held in an escrow account until the real estate closing. In some cases, these funds are refundable if the loan fails to close, but if the loan does close, the purchaser is given credit at closing for the earnest money.
• Easement
  A legal document on certain property giving persons other than the owner the right of way, access and limited use or enjoyment of the land involved. (Example, power companies sometimes need a right of way for power lines.) Closing documents and/or land surveys will describe and show such easements. These easements must be acceptable to the mortgage company before the buyer can consummate a binding closing.
• Eminent Domain
  The right of local or state government to purchase private property for public use. Owners receive compensation based on fair market value and sometimes additional funds for the inconvenience of moving. This is legal under the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution. Reasons for eminent domain can include schools, roads, parks, hospitals, public safety and other public buildings.
• Equal Credit Opportunity Act
  A 1974 federal law under Title VII of the Consumer Credit Protection Act which requires lenders not to discriminate against consumers based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex or marital status, or receipt of income from public assistance (food stamps, social security). Borrowers are notified at application in writing of agencies that they may contact if they feel they have been discriminated against in any way.
• Equity
  The homeowner’s part of the property value over and above the outstanding balance owed to the mortgage company.
• Equity Loan
  A real estate loan based on the borrower’s equity (ownership) in the property. The amount that the bank might loan could be determined by the fair market value of the property minus any current mortgages secured by the property, subject to the owner’s other debt commitments and credit history.
• Escrow
  A neutral third party holds other people’s funds in a secure account for future use. An earnest money deposit is held in a real estate broker’s escrow account. It is the broker’s account, but he is holding the buyer’s funds in the account for safekeeping until closing. In the case of a mortgage, the total monthly mortgage payment may include funds to pay for future taxes and insurance paid in addition to the principal and interest. This escrow is held by the lender until taxes and insurance are due, at which time the mortgage company pays the taxes and insurance on the borrower’s behalf. After the taxes and insurance are paid, the lender may re-adjust the total monthly payment to insure sufficient funds for future escrowed items.
• Eviction
  Eviction is the process of removing an occupant, either tenant or owner, by law enforcement for failure to perform as promised on a note or lease contract.
• Exclusive Agency Listing
  A written agreement between a property owner and a real estate broker giving the broker the exclusive right to sell the property for a specified period and at a specified fee. Agents whose licenses are held by a broker may sign on their broker’s behalf.
• Extension
  A written agreement between all parties on a contract allowing an additional specified period of time during which all parties are expected to perform their contractual obligations.

F

• Fair Credit Reporting Act
  A federal law that protects consumers by regulating the consumer credit agencies’ disclosure of individuals’ credit history. This also established guidelines and procedures for correcting errors on your credit report.
• Fair Market Value
  A median price based on the highest price a willing buyer would be willing to pay and the lowest price a willing seller would be willing to accept in a competitive market.
• Fannie Mae (FNMA), also known as Federal National Mortgage Association
  A government agency that is a major mortgage investor.
• Fannie Mae’s Community Home Buying Program
  A flexible home purchase program to assist low-to-moderate income families in the purchase of a home by decreasing the amount of down payment and allowing higher debt and housing ratios in some cases. Potential buyers are required to attend a pre-purchase home buying class.
• FHA
  An agency of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that was established in 1934 under the National Housing Act to encourage improvement in housing standards, to provide an insurance for mortgages, and to exert a stabilizing influence on the mortgage market as a whole. FHA was the government’s response to a lack of quality housing available at the time, excessive foreclosures and a building industry that had collapsed during the Depression. FHA’s main activity is the insuring of residential mortgage loans made by banks and private lenders. The FHA sets standards for construction and underwriting but does not lend money or construct housing.
• FHA 203b
  The most popular FHA government loan. It typically requires a three percent down payment.
• FHA 203k
  A renovation and repair loan through the Federal Housing Authority, typically made for single family properties.
• FHA Futures
  Down payment assistance for a loan where the buyer can borrow up to 6% of the loan amount to be used towards closing costs and down payment.
• Fiduciary
  A relationship which implies a position of trust or confidence. Among the obligations a fiduciary owes to his principal are duties of loyalty, obedience, full disclosure, the duty to use skill, care and diligence, and the duty to account for all finances.
• First Mortgage
  The first mortgage is the primary loan against a property, and takes precedence over any other mortgage, equity line or other lien.
• First Right Of Refusal
  A legal right by an individual giving that person the first opportunity to purchase or lease real property.
• Fixed Rate Mortgage
  A mortgage with an interest rate and monthly payment that remain the same and cannot change over the life of the loan.
• Flood Insurance
  A special and separate insurance policy that covers property in the flood area against damage by flooding. Although flood insurance may be bought through your local insurance agent, it is issued through the federal government. When purchasing real estate, a survey is typically required where there is any risk of flooding to the property. Flood insurance may be required by the lender in order for the buyer to obtain a loan.
• Forbearance
  The act of refraining from taking legal action despite the fact that payment of a promissory note in a mortgage or deed of trust is in arrears. It is usually granted only when a borrower makes a satisfactory arrangement by which the arrears will be paid at a future date.
• Foreclosure
  The legal process that begins when a borrower fails to make payments to a lender on a mortgaged property. Should the borrower not be able to correct the default, the property will be sold at public auction to satisfy the debt.
• Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), also known as Fannie Mae
  A federal agency established in 1938 to purchase mortgage loans from lenders as an investor. FNMA originally bought FHA loans, but now is a conventional, FHA and VA investor. FNMA is now a private company operating with private capital.
• Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC), also known as Freddie Mac
  A publicly held corporation that buys mortgages and thereby creates a flow of funds to mortgage lenders. FHLMC was chartered by Congress in 1970.

G

• Grantee
  The individual to whom interest in real property is conveyed.
• Grantor
  The individual conveying the interest in real property to another person.
• Guarantee Mortgage
  A mortgage that is guaranteed by a third party, often a government agency.

H

• Hazard Insurance
  An insurance policy selected by the borrower to cover the property against loss due to hazards such as fire, hail, etc. The borrower pays an annual premium for this coverage. In many cases, the lender requires that the borrower pay 1/12 of this annual amount every month, included with the borrower’s monthly payment of principal and interest. These funds are held in reserve on behalf of the borrower in an escrow account.
• Home Inspection
  An inspection made by a third party (not the buyer or seller) for a statement of condition on the property, i.e. structural and mechanical conditions. Many contracts to purchase are contingent on the buyer having a home inspection performed within a certain time period prior to closing.
• Homeowners Association
  An association with annual dues collected from residents to insure enforcement of any covenants or restrictions that apply to the properties covered. For example, the Homeowner’s Association could legally cause a homeowner to take care of their yard as required by a legal covenant signed as a part of closing. Homeowner’s Association fees also cover maintaining common areas, and in some cases may be either voluntary or mandatory.
• Homeowners Insurance
  The same as hazard insurance. It covers the property mortgaged against loss due to fire, hail, theft, etc. The borrower selects the insurance, and pays the annual premiums, often through an escrow account.
• Homeowners Warranty
  An insurance policy covering specific future repairs, should they become necessary, for a specific time period. These are often provided by the seller or builder as a condition of sale.
• HUD
  The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This is the agency responsible for enforcing the federal Fair Housing Act Among HUD’s many programs are urban renewal, public housing, rehabilitation loans, FHA subsidy programs, and water and sewer grants. The Office of Interstate Land Sales Registration, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the National Mortgage Association (GMNA) are all under HUD.

I

• Interest
  What a lender charges to borrow money. The part of the borrower’s monthly payment that goes to the lender after the principal has been applied against the loan balance.
• Investment Property
  A property that is not occupied by the owner as their primary residence but is instead used to produce income, depreciation for tax benefits or future gains by appreciation.

J

• Joint Tenancy
  A legal way for parties to co-own real property with equal rights to the real estate. Should any of the joint tenancy owners die, no interest in the property can be transferred by will as the remaining joint tenant(s) acquires all ownership.
• Jumbo or Non-conforming loan
  A loan that exceeds Fannie Mae’s legal legislated mortgage amount which as of June 2006 is $417,000.
• Junior Mortgage
  A second, third or equity mortgage that is subordinate to an existing lien already on the property.

L

• Landlord
  The owner or lessor of a leased property.
• Late Charge
  As established in the original agreement, the penalty that is due when the borrower fails to pay by a certain number of days after the payment due date. There is usually a 15 day grace period on traditional mortgages before late charges are incurred. Rent payments often have a 3 – 5 day grace period.
• Lead Based Paint
  Prior to 1978 paint that was used in construction often had concentrations of lead. These materials have since been taken off the market as they can be harmful. When selling or leasing a property that was built prior to 1978, the owner should take care to provide the buyer or tenant with a lead based paint disclosure.
• Lease
  A contract between a landlord and a tenant that transfers the right to exclusive possession and use of the landlord’s real property to the tenant for a specified period of time for a stated consideration.
• Lease Purchase
  A contract between a tenant and an owner by which part of the monthly rent payments may go toward down payment on the property. When pre-determined sufficient funds are received by the seller, the buyer may seek a first mortgage through a typical lender or in some cases with the seller.
• Legal Description
  The written description of a piece of land giving all pertinent information such as land lot, subdivision name, Block, parcel, acreage, etc. that comprises a legal and sufficient description of a particular property. For a real estate contract to be binding it must include an accurate legal description.
• Lessee
  The person to whom property is rented or leased; called a tenant in most residential leases.
• Lessor
  The person who rents or leases property to another. In residential leasing, he or she is often referred to as a landlord. One who leases property to a tenant.
• Lien
  A monetary claim against a property that must be paid off when a property is sold in order for the new ownership to be legally recorded in county records.
• Lifetime Cap
  The maximum that an interest rate can increase or decrease over the life of a loan.
• Listing Agent
  A real estate agent that represents the seller of the property.
• Listing Broker
  The broker that represents the seller and has the property listed for sale. It is often another broker, representing a buyer, that secures an offer to purchase the property. In such cases, the brokers cooperate (co-op) and the commission is split between the two companies.
• Listing Contract, also called Listing Agreement
  A real estate broker (or agent, acting on behalf of the broker) and a seller sign this agreement in order to give the broker the rights to advertise the property and represent the seller. The seller’s real estate is then listed for sale, most often in a multiple listing service. In most cases the payment of a commission to the brokerage is contingent upon the agent procuring a satisfactory buyer for the property within the time frame of the Listing Contract. The commission is then paid to the broker from the seller’s proceeds at closing. Flat fee listing contracts have become popular, whereby a seller may pay a specified amount upfront for the services received. All details are typically determined by the listing contract.
• Listing/ Listing Agreement
  A written agreement between a property owner and a broker authorizing the broker to advertise the property and find a buyer or a tenant for a specific property. See Listing Contract.
• Loan Application
  A form used to apply for a mortgage loan that a borrower must complete in order to secure the loan. It has questions about the borrower’s income, assets and debts, plus some required disclosures.
• Loan Commitment
  A lender’s written approval granting a specific loan amount, conditions, and a set time limit for closing the loan.
• Loan Origination
  The process of applying for a mortgage loan.
• Loan Originator
  The person who assists borrowers in obtaining their new loan.
• Loan to Value
  The ratio of the amount of the loan divided by the value or sales price of the home.
• Lock In
  An agreement in which the lender guarantees a specified interest rate for a certain amount of time at a particular cost.

M

• Maturity Date
  The date on which the last payment on a mortgage or any other financial instrument becomes due and payable.
• Mechanics Lien
  A financial claim created to enforce payment for work performed and materials provided on either building, repairing or improving a structure.
• Metes & Bounds
  Land measurement of real property described by using directions, angles, and distances. To properly describe the subject property it begins and ends at the same point and is usually done by a licensed surveyor.
• MLS, also known as Multiple Listing Service.
  MLS is composed of hundreds of database computer systems located throughout the USA for real estate agents to showcase their available real estate listings that are for sale and for lease. MLS listings in most cities are now available for viewing by the public on MLS.
• Mold
  Fungi that may be present both indoors and out. Prior to a real estate closing, a termite inspection is usually performed to inspect for termites, mold and mildew on the property or in a crawl space.
• Mortgage
  A legal document signed by borrower(s) and promising a property to the lender in return for payment of a debt. Some states use First Trust Deeds instead of mortgages.
• Mortgage Banker
  A lender that originates mortgage loans through mortgage brokers for sale to investors such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or Ginnie Mae.
• Mortgage Broker
  A company that buys mortgages from mortgage bankers to sell to investors such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
• Mortgage Insurance
  Insurance paid by the borrower to insure the lender against default in case of non payment of the mortgage loan. The mortgage insurance company may buy the property or just cover part of the losses to the lender. Many government loans and some conventional loans require mortgage insurance with loans to value over 80%.
• Mortgage Insurance Premium ( MIP)
  The monthly insurance paid by the borrower to offset any potential loss in case of foreclosure.
• Mortgage Interest Rate
  The percentage rate lenders charge for mortgage loans; shown on the note signed at closing.
• Mortgagee
  The lender originating and closing the mortgage loan in their name prior to selling to a broker for investor purchase.
• Mortgagor
  The borrower signing the note in a mortgage loan process.
• Multiple Listing Service, also known as MLS
  Multiple Listing Service is composed of hundreds of database computer systems located throughout the USA for real estate agents to showcase their available real estate listings that are for sale and for lease. Multiple Listing Service listings in most cities are now available for viewing by the public on MLS

N

• Negative Amortization
  When adjustable rate mortgage payments are not sufficient to pay the monthly principal and interest, the deficient amount is added to the original mortgage which causes the outstanding principal balance to increase. Therefore, the amortization is negative instead of positive.
• Non Conforming Loans
  Loan amounts that exceeds FNMA’s $417,000 (as of July 2006) maximum lending.
• Note
  A statement borrowers sign at loan closing that gives the terms of repayment. This also includes the borrower’s promise to repay.
• Notice of Default
  A formal written notice to a borrower that a default has occurred (i.e. payment has not been received) and that legal action may be taken.

O

• Offer
  When a buyer makes a written promise to purchase real estate, it is an offer. It does not become a contract until all terms are accepted by both seller and buyer.
• Open End Loan
  A mortgage loan that is expandable by increments up to a maximum dollar amount, the full loan being secured by the same original mortgage.
• Open Listing
  A listing under which the principal (owner) reserves the right to list his property with other brokers, yet grants the real estate agent the right to advertise and sell the property.
• Option
  The right to purchase or lease property within a pre-determined time at a specific price. There is no obligation to purchase, but the seller is obligated to sell if the option holder exercises the right to purchase. For the option to be valid, it must include consideration (i.e. earnest money).
• Origination Fee
  The fee charged by most lenders to originate a loan, typically one percent of the loan amount.
• Owner Financing
  The seller provides financing so that the buyer does not have to go through a bank or traditional sources to obtain funding to purchase the property. The seller does not receive all proceeds at once, as in a traditional closing where the buyer obtains bank financing, but the seller does receive interest in addition to the principal.

P

• Payment
  The monthly amount due that a borrower must pay on a mortgage loan.
• Payment Cap
  The most that a monthly mortgage payment can be increased on an adjustable rate loan mortgage.
• Personal Liability
  Person is legally liable for individual action, responsibility or activity.
• PITI
  Principal, interest, taxes and insurance combined. When less then 20% is paid as a down payment on a property, most lenders will require that each monthly payment include at least 1/12 of the annual taxes and 1/12 of the annual insurance in addition to the required principal and interest.
• Plat
  A map that is drawn to scale of a specific piece of land that shows the shape, acreage, etc. The plat illustrates the geographic boundaries of the property.
• Points
  Discount points are paid upfront to mortgage brokers to give a sufficient yield when the borrower would like a lower interest rate. One point is one percent of the loan amount.
• Possession
  The buyer occupying the property that is purchased or a tenant occupying the property that is leased. In a real estate sale, possession is rarely granted prior to closing when the seller receives their funds.
• Prepaid
  Items paid in advance of closing, such as real estate taxes and homeowner’s insurance premium.
• Prepayment Penalty
  A fee charged when a borrower pays a mortgage in full prior to the agreed upon date. The note and deed would advise of any such penalty.
• Pre-qualification
  Having a mortgage lender advise that debt ratios and credit report plus other factors show a borrower qualifies for a particular loan amount before signing a contract.
• PrincipalThe outstanding loan balance not including interest.
• Private Mortgage Insurance
  Insurance paid to a private firm to insure the top 20% to 25% of a loan against default. It is rarely required when the owners’ equity exceeds 20% of the fair market value of the property.
• Property Tax
  Taxes payable to the county where the property is located. Taxes are usually paid on an annual basis and based on the county’s determined value of the property. Many counties will offer a homestead exemption, which is a reduction in taxes, if the real estate is your primary residence. Check with your local county tax assessor’s office for details.
• Purchase and Sale Agreement
  The contract between the buyer and seller stating terms, conditions, sales price and other pertinent information about the property being purchased.

Q

• Qualify
  To meet the guidelines based on debt, income, and credit worthiness.
• Qualifying Ratios
  Comparing a borrower’s income to their proposed monthly housing expense. Also comparing their income to monthly housing expense added to all of the borrower’s other debt obligations.
• Quit Claim Deed
  A document by which one property owner releases his or her claims, rights and interest in a particular property.

R

• Radon
  A natural gas found in the environment. If present inside a home, it can be harmful in sufficient concentrations. Radon gas testing is available.
• Rate Lock
  When the lender issues a written commitment to a borrower as to a specific interest rate for a specific period of time.
• Real Estate Agent
  A person licensed to advertise and negotiate the sale and lease of real estate on behalf of the property owner. See Agent.
• Real Estate Commission
  Each state has a Real Estate Commission or similarly named department or agency that oversees the licensure of real estate agents and real estate brokers in that state. Qualifications and requirements for licensure differ from state to state. This Commission (or department or agency) may also oversee similar licensure, such as real estate appraisers. This Commission sets all policies, procedures, and rules for practicing real estate within the state.
• Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT)
  A business trust or corporation that pools the money of High Yield Investors for the benefit of investing in real estate. The REIT Company offers common shares to the public. In this way, a REIT stock is similar to any other stock that represents ownership in an operating business. However, a REIT has two unique features: its primary business is managing groups of income-producing properties and it must distribute most of its profits as dividends. Corporations and trusts that qualify for REIT status with the IRS generally do not pay corporate income taxes. Instead, they pay out all of their taxable income in the form of dividends.
• Real Estate Owned (REO)
  Real estate that is owned by a bank or financial group. Usually a result of their borrowers defaulting on the loan and the subsequent foreclosure of the property from that buyer.
• Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA)
  Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act is a federal law, enacted in 1974, which details the procedures to be followed in a real estate closing. It is intended to protect the borrower and seller by making everyone more knowledgeable about possible costs and charges.
• Realtor, also known as Realtor® or REALTOR®
  A real estate broker or a real estate agent who holds active membership in a local board of Realtors that is affiliated with the National Association of Realtors® (or NAR). The NAR has a Code of Ethics that all members are to adhere to. All Realtors are real estate brokers and real estate salespeople, but not all real estate brokers and real estate salespeople are Realtors (members of the National Association of Realtors.)
• Refinancing
  Obtaining a different loan for the benefit of perhaps a lower interest rate, converting an ARM to a fixed rate, or to take out some of the equity in the property. The borrower re-applies for a mortgage and goes through another closing transaction on the property they have previously mortgaged. The new loan pays off and replaces the original loan.
• Rent with Option to Buy (or Lease Purchase Option)
  An alternative financing option that allows home buyers to lease a home with an option to purchase at the end of the lease. Each month’s rent payment may consist of the customary rent payment, plus an extra amount that is applied towards the down payment on the purchase.
• Reserves in Escrow Account
  Money that mortgage companies set aside in separate non-interest bearing accounts to pay taxes, homeowners’ association dues and insurance premiums.
• Restrictions
  Covenants or other types of conditions in the deed or other real estate documents that restrict the use, restructure and care of real estate involved in the transaction.
• Return On Investment (ROI)
  ROI is how much profit or cost savings is realized as a result of participating in the investment.
• Right of first refusal
  The right to the first opportunity to lease or purchase real property. For example, apartment tenants might retain the right of first refusal when their units are being converted to condominiums.
• Rule of 72
  The rule says that to find the number of years required to double your money at a given interest rate, you just divide the interest rate into 72.

S

• Second Home
  Real estate owned that is not a primary residence. This may be a vacation home, seasonal property, or other real estate. The IRS allows certain benefits for a second home under specific conditions.
• Second Mortgage
  A loan taken out behind the first mortgage, perhaps at the purchase or even at a later date when the owner needs funds and the equity is sufficient.
• Secondary Mortgage Market
  Buying and selling existing mortgages, usually in blocks of several loans.
• Seller financing, or seller take-back
  When the seller receives only a portion of the sales price at closing, and the balance he finances to the buyer in the form of a promissory note secured by the real estate purchased. See Owner Financing.
• Selling Agent
  A real estate agent who represents the seller in a transaction. See Agent.
• Settlement
  The actual real estate closing where the property is transferred and the seller and the buyer sign all required documents for title transfer and mortgage.
• Settlement Statement
  The form showing all fees, charges and monetary transfers involving the buyer, seller, and all parties involved in the transaction.
• Short Sale
  sale of real estate that generates proceeds that are less than the amount owed on the property. A real estate short sale occurs when a lender and borrower decide that selling a piece of property, thereby absorbing a moderate loss, is preferable to having the borrower default on the loan.
• Special assessment
  A tax or levy against real property for improvements. The fee is not necessarily imposed on all residents of a community, but to the owners of specific properties. Also, condominium owners may have a special assessment imposed for specific improvements.
• Special Stipulations ( also called special stips)
  These are specific instructions written into a contract that are unique to this buyer and this seller and are in addition to the standard contract form.
• “Subject to”
  The recognition by a buyer of conditions (such as a prior loan), which are not the buyer’s legal responsibility.
• Subordination clause
  A clause in which the holder of a mortgage permits a subsequent mortgage to take priority. Subordination is the act of yielding priority. For example, this clause provides that if a prior mortgage is paid off or renewed, the junior mortgage will continue in its subordinate or secondary position and will not automatically become primary mortgage.
• Subsidized Second Mortgage
  A creative financing option known as the Community Second® mortgage for low and moderate income households. An investor purchases a first mortgage that has a subsidized second mortgage behind it. The second mortgage may be issued by a state, county, or local housing agency, foundation, or non-profit corporation. Payment on the second mortgage is often deferred and carries a very low interest rate or no interest rate. Part of the debt may be forgiven incrementally for each year the buyer remains in the home.
• Survey
  The measurement of a parcel of real estate by a licensed surveyor. It shows the specific details about the measurement, shape, size and location of the property.
• Sweat Equity
  The equity earned as a result of the owners’ labor in upgrading and improving the property.

T

• Tax Deed
  A deed that is used to convey title when the real estate is purchased from the county, having been auctioned off to pay for back taxes that went unpaid by the original property owner.
• Tax Lien
  A lien against a property for unpaid taxes.
• Ten Thirty One Exchange (1031 Exchange)
  A means of deferring capital gains taxes on real estate exchanges for like kind properties. This is allowed under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, Section 1031.
• Tenancy by the Entirety
  A special type of real estate ownership that is reserved for married couples. The law considers the marital unit to be the owner and both spouses have an equal, undivided interest in the whole. Both spouses have the right to enjoy the property, and when one spouse dies, the surviving spouse gets title to the property in the entirety. It is similar to joint tenancy with the right of survivor-ship, but it is a term that is only used in certain states.
• Tenancy in Common
  A type of ownership in which two or more people have an undivided interest in property, without the right of survivorship. Upon death of one of the owners, his or her interest passes, not to the co-owner(s) but to whomever they have chosen as their heir.
• Term
  The length of time it will take to pay the mortgage in full.
• Time is of the Essence
  The statement in a contract which emphasizes that punctual performance by all parties is essential.
• Time Limit of an Offer
  An offer should include a specified time period during which the other party must decide to accept, reject, or counter the offer.
• Title Company
  The company that, for a fee, checks and insures the title against liens, ownership claims, and title problems.
• Title Insurance
  An insurance policy that may be purchased to protect the new owner from any liens or clouds against the title. In order to issue title insurance, the issuer will perform a title search in the county records. Since title is searched at the time of closing, title insurance is usually less expensive at the time of closing, rather than if a buyer called the title company at a later time, as an additional title search would have to be performed prior to issuing the insurance.
• Title Search
  A review done by the title company’s representative of all records available to determine if the title is indeed clear of all liens and claims.
• Transfer Tax
  A tax that is collected at closing for the transfer of ownership of real property.
• Truth in Lending Act
  Federal law that makes lenders disclose, in writing, all terms, charges and APR to borrowers upon loan application and again at the closing of the mortgage loan.

U

• Underwriters
  Trained individuals that make the final decision of whether each loan is approved, approved with conditions, or denied.
• Underwriting
  The final approval or rejection by a lender upon reviewing all pertinent details of a loan applicant’s credit worthiness.

V

• VA Funding Fee
  A funding fee is added to most VA loan amounts, depending on the amount of down payment that the veteran makes. In most cases the fee is 2% of the loan amount.
• VA Mortgage
  Typically a 100% loan made to veterans. They must qualify by providing proof of eligibility. When selling a house originally purchased through VA eligibility, the veteran should get a “Release of Liability” so that he can obtain a VA loan in the future.

W

• Warranty
  A binding promise that certain statements are true.
• Warranty Deed
  A deed warranting that the grantor has clear title and promises he has the right to convey the property to the buyer.
• Wrap-Around Mortgage
  A mortgage to the new buyer which includes the seller’s existing first mortgage payment, plus an additional amount that will be proceeds to the seller.

Y

• Yield
  The profit from an investment, normally stated as a percentage of the amount invested.

Z

• Zero Lot Lines
  When a building is positioned so that it rests either directly on the lot’s boundary line, or so close to the boundary line that there is minimal yard or space between the structure and adjacent structure.
• Zoning
  Local requirements for the use of real estate in a particular area.