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 HomeFinder, Inc.
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Steven Boylan
Phone (317) 626-3036 Fax (317) 489-3357 Homefinder, Inc. 8206 Rockville Road, Suite 209 Indianapolis, IN 46214 |
Glossary
The condensed history of a title to a particular parcel of real estate, consisting of a summary of the original grant and all subsequent conveyances and encumbrances affecting the property and a certification by the abstractor that the history is complete and accurate.
The clause in a mortgage or deed of trust that can be enforced to make the entire debt due immediately if the borrower defaults on an installment payment or other covenant.
Acquiring title to additions or improvements to real property as a result of the annexation of fixtures or the accretion of alluvial deposits along the banks of streams.
The increase or addition of land by the deposit of sand or soil washed up naturally from a river, lake or sea.
on a closing statement, items of expense that are incurred but not yet payable, such as interest on a mortgage loan or taxes on real property.
A formal declaration made before a duly authorized officer, usually a notary public, by a person who has signed a document.
A measure of land equal to 43,560 square feet, 4,840 square yards, 4,047 square meters, 160 square rods, or 0.4047 hectares.
The legal process that results in a tenant's being physically removed from the leased premises.
Express information or fact; that which is known; direct knowledge.
A loan characterized by a fluctuating interest rate, usually one tied to a bank or savings and loan associated cost-of-funds index.
See basis
A tax levied according to value, generally used to refer to real estate tax. Also called the general tax.
The actual, open, notorious, hostile, and continuous possession of another's land under a claim of title. Possession for a statutory period may be a means of acquiring title.
A written statement, made under oath by a seller or grantor of real property and acknowledged by a notary public, in which a grantor (1) identifies himself or herself and indicates marital status, (2) certifies that since the examination of the title, on the date of the contracts no defects have occurred in the title and (3) certifies that he or she is in possession of the property (if applicable).
The relationship between a principal and an agent wherein the agent is authorized to represent the principal in certain transactions.
An agency relationship in which the agent is given an estate or interest in the subject of the agency (the property).
One who acts or has the power to act for another. A fiduciary relationship is created under the law of agency when a property owner, as the principal, executes a listing agreement or management contract authorizing a licensed real estate broker to be his or her agent.
A designated airspace over a piece of land. An air lot, like surface property, may be transferred.
The act of transferring property to another. Alienation may be voluntary, such as by gift or sale, or involuntary, as through eminent domain or adverse possession.
The clause in a mortgage or deed of trust that states that a balance of the secured debt becomes immediately due and payable at the lender's option if the property is sold by the borrower. In effect the clause prevents the borrower from assigning the debt without the lender's approval
A system of land ownership in which land is held free and clear of any rent or services due to the government; commonly contrasted to the feudal system. Land is held under the allodial system in the United States.
A title insurance policy that protects the interest in the collateral property of a mortgage lender who originates a new real estate loan.
Act addresses rights of individuals with disabilities in employment and public accommodations.
A loan in which the principal as well as the interest is payable in monthly or other periodic installments over the term of the loan.
Process of converting personal property into real property.
The relationship of the total finance charges associated with a loan. This must be disclosed to borrowers by lenders under the Truth-in_Lending Act.
The appraisal principle that holds that value can increase or decrease based on the expectation of some future benefit or detriment produced by the property.
Laws designed to preserve the free enterprise of the open marketplace by making illegal certain private conspiracies and combinations formed to minimize competition. Most violations of antitrust laws in the real estate business involve either price-fixing (brokers conspiring to set fixed compensation rates) or allocations of customers or markets (brokers agreeing to limit their areas of trade or dealing to certain areas or properties).
An estimate of the quantity, quality, or value of something. The process through which conclusions of property value are obtained; also refers to the report that sets forth the process of estimation and conclusion of value.
An independent person trained to provide an unbiased estimate of value.
An increase in the worth or value of a property due to economic or related causes, which may prove to be either temporary or permanent; opposite of depreciation.
A right, privilege, or improvement belonging to, and passing with, the land.
An easement that is annexed to the ownership of one parcel and allows the owner the use of the neighbor's land.
A mineral once used in insulation and other materials that can cause respiratory diseases.
The combining of two or more adjoining lots into one larger tract to increase their total value.
The imposition of a tax, charge, or levy, usually according to establish rates.
The transfer in writing of interest in a bond, mortgage, lease, or other instrument.
Acquiring title to property on which there is an existing mortgage and agreeing to be personally liable for the term and conditions of the mortgage, including payments.
The act of taking a person's property into legal custody by writ or other judicial order to hold it available for application to that person's debt to a creditor.
An abstract of title that an attorney has examined and has certified to be, in his or her opinion, an accurate statement of the facts concerning the property ownership.
Computer systems that permit lenders to expedite the loan approval process and reduce lending costs.
A clause in the listing agreement that states that the agreement will continue automatically for a certain period of time after its expiration date. In many states, use of the clause is discouraged or prohibited.
The sudden tearing away of land, as by earthquake, flood, volcanic action, or the sudden change in the course of a stream.
The appraisal principle that states that the greatest value in a property will occur when the type and size of the improvements are proportional to each other as well as the land.
A final payment of mortgage loan that is considerably larger that the required periodic payments because the loan amount was not fully amortized
A deed that carries with into warranties against liens or other encumbrances but that does imply that the grantor has the right to convey title. The grantor may add warranties to the deed at his or her discretion.
The main imaginary line running east and west and crossing a principal meridian at a definite point, used by surveyors for reference in location and describing land under the rectangular (government) survey system of legal description.
The financial interest that the Internal Revenue Service attributes to an owner of an investment property of the purpose of determining annual depreciation and gain or loss on the sale of the asset. If a property was acquired by purchase, the owner's basis is the cost of the property plus the value of any capital expenditures for improvements to the property, minus any depreciation allowable or actually taken. This new basis is called the adjusted basis.
A permanent reference mark or point established of use by surveyors in measuring differences in elevation.
(1) The person for whom a trust operates or in whose behalf the income from a trust estate is drawn. (2) A lender in a deed of trust loan transaction.
See contract.
An agreement that may accompany an earnest money deposit for the purchase of real property as evidence of the purchaser's good faith and intent to complete the transaction.
A mortgage covering more than one parcel of real estate, providing for each parcel's partial release from the mortgage lien upon repayment of a definite portion of the debt.
The illegal practice of inducing home owners to sell their properties by making representations regarding the entry of persons of a particular race or national origin into the neighborhood.
Common name for those state and federal laws that regulate the registration and sale of investment securities.
Money or property given to make up any difference in value or equity between two properties in an exchange.
A secondary place of business apart from the principal or main office from which real estate business is conducted. A branch office usually must be run by a licensed real estate broker working on behalf of the broker.
Violation of any term or conditions in a contract without legal excuse; for example, failure to make a payment when it is due.
One who acts as an intermediary on behalf of others for a fee or commission.
The bringing together of parties interested in making a real estate transaction.
Defunct, derelict, or abandoned commercial or industrial sites; many have toxic wastes.
Provides federal funding to states and localities to clean up brownsfields sites.
A Strip of land, usually used as a park or designated for a similar use, separating land dedicated to one use from land dedicated to another use (e.g., residential from commercial)
Written governmental permission for the construction, alteration, or demolition of and improvement, showing compliance with building codes and zoning ordinances.
See Uniform Commercial Code
The concept of land ownership that includes ownership of all legal rights to the land--- for example, possession, control within the law and enjoyment
A financing technique used to reduce the monthly payments for the first few years of a loan. Funds in the form of discount points are given to the lender by the builder or seller to buy down or lower the effective interest rate paid by the buyer, thus reducing the monthly payments for a set time.
A principal-agent relationship is which the broker is the agent for the buyer, with fiduciary responsibilities to the buyer. The broker represents the buyer under the law of agency.
A residential real estate broker or salesperson who represents the prospective purchaser in a transaction. The buyer's agent owes the buyer/principal the common-law or statutory agency duties.
Profit earned from the sale of an asset.
A mathematical process for estimating the value of a property using a proper rate of return on the investment and the annual net operating income expected to be produced by the property. The formula is expressed as: Income divided by Rate = Value.
The rate of return a property will produce on the owner's investment.
The net spendable income from and investment, determined by deducting all operating and fixed expenses from the gross income. When expenses exceed income, a negative cash flow results.
In an agricultural lease, the amount of money given as rent to the landowner at the outset of the lease, as opposed to sharecropping.
A Latin phrase meaning "Let the buyer beware"
A form indicating the appraised value of a property being financed with a VA loan.
The document generally given to the purchaser at a tax foreclosure sale. A certificate of sale does not convey title; normally it is an instrument certifying that the holder received title to the property after the redemption period passed and that the holder paid the property taxes for the interim period.
A Statement of opinion on the status of the title to a parcel of real property based on an examination of specified public records.
The succession of conveyances, from some accepted starting point, whereby the present holder of real property derives title.
The appraisal principle that holds that no physical or economic condition remains constant.
See personal property
An act that prohibits racial discrimination in the sale and rental of housing.
The principal
An event where promises made in a sales contract are fulfilled and mortgage loan funds (if any) are distributed to the buyer.
A detailed cash accounting of a real estate transaction showing all cash received, all charges and credits made, and all cash paid out in the transaction.
Any document, claim, unreleased lien, or encumbrance that my impair the title to real property or make the title doubtful; usually revealed by a title search and removed by either a quitclaim deed or suit to quiet title.
The grouping of home sites within a subdivision on smaller lots than normal, with the remaining land used as common areas.
A written system of standards for ethical conduct.
A supplement or an addition to a will, executed with the same formalities as a will, that normally does not revoke the entire will.
A clause in insurance policies covering real property that requires the policyholder to maintain fire insurance coverage generally equal to at least 80 percent of the property's actual replacement cost.
The illegal act by a real estate broker of placing client or customer funds with personal funds. By law brokers are required to maintain a separate trust or escrow account for other parties' funds held temporarily by the broker.
Payment to a broker for services rendered, such as in the sale or purchase of real property; usually a percentage of the selling price of the property.
Parts of a property that are necessary or convenient to the existence, maintenance, and safety of a condominium or are normally in common use by all the condominium residents, Each condominium owner has an undivided ownership interest in the common elements
The body of law based on custom, usage, and court decisions.
Provides a team of property managers, accounting staff, office staff, and property consultants to manage property.
A system of property ownership based on the theory that each spouse has an equal interest in the property acquired by the efforts of either spouse during marriage. A holdover of Spanish law found predominantly in western states; the system was unknown under English common law.
Under the Act, financial institutions are expected to meet the deposit and credit needs of their communities; participate and invest in local community development and rehabilitation projects; and participate in loan programs for housing, small businesses, and small forms.
Properties used in an appraisal report that are substantially equivalent to the subject property.
The appraisal principle that states that excess profits generate competition.
A comparison of the prices of recently sold homes that are similar to a listing seller's home in terms of location, style, and amenities.
COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE, COMPENSATION, AND LIABILITY ACT. A federal law administered by the Environmental protection Agency that establishes a process for identifying parties responsible for creating hazardous waste sites, forcing liable parties to clean up toxic sites, bringing legal action against responsible parties, and funding the abatement of toxic sites. See Superfund.
See master plan
An electronic network for handling loan applications through remote computer terminals linked to various lenders' computers.
A judicial or administrative proceeding to exercise the power of eminent domain, through which a government agency takes private property for public use and compensates the owner
Written governmental permission allowing a use inconsistent with zoning but necessary for the common good, such as locating an emergency medical facility in a predominantly residential area.
The absolute ownership of a unit in a multiunit building based on a legal description of the airspace the unit actually occupies plus and undivided interest in the ownership of the common elements, which are owned jointly with the other condominium unit owners.
Permits judgment to be entered against a debtor without the creditor's having to institute legal proceedings.
The appraisal principle that holds that the greater the similarity among properties in an area, the better they will hold their value.
(1) That received by the grantor in exchange for his or her deed. (2) Something of value that induces a person to enter into a contract.
See interim financing
Actions of a landlord that so materially disturb or impair a tenant's enjoyment of the leased premises that the tenant is effectively forced to move out and terminate the lease without liability for any further rent.
Notice given to the world by recorded documents. All people are charged with knowledge of such documents and their contents, whether or not they have actually examined them. Possession of property is also considered constructive notice that the person in possession has an interest in the property.
A provision in a contract that requires a certain act to be done or a certain event to occur before the contract becomes binding.
A legally enforceable promise or set of promises that must be performed and for which, if a breach of the promise occurs, the law provides a remedy. A contract may be unilateral, by which only one party is bound to act, or bilateral, by which all parties to the instrument are legally bound to act as prescribed.
The appraisal principle that states that the value of any component of a property is what it gives to the value of the whole or what its absence detracts from that value.
An arrangement where a package of services (such as a real estate firm, title insurance company, mortgage broker and home inspection company) is offered to consumers.
A loan that requires no insurance or guarantee.
A term used to refer to any document that transfers title to real property. The term is also used in describing the act of transferring.
See listing broker
A residential multiunit building whose title is held by a trust or corporation that is owned by and operated for the benefit of persons living within the building, who are the beneficial owners of the trust or stockholders of the corporation, each possessing a proprietary lease.
Title ownership held by two or more persons.
An entity or organization, created by operation of law, whose rights of doing business are essentially the same as those of an individual. The entity has continuous existence until it is dissolved according to legal procedures.
Provisions in the rectangular survey (government survey) system made to compensate for the curvature of the earth's surface. Every fourth township line (at 24-mile intervals) is used as a correction line on which the intervals between the north and south range lines are remeasured and corrected to a full six miles.
The process of estimating the value of a property by adding to the estimated land value the appraiser's estimate of the reproduction or replacement cost of the building, less depreciation.
An internal Revenue Service term for depreciation.
A new offer made in response to an offer received. It has the effect of rejecting the original offer, which cannot be accepted thereafter unless revived by the offeror.
A written agreement between two or more parties in which a party or parties pledge to perform or no perform specified acts with regard to property; usually found in such real estate documents as deeds, mortgages, leases, and contracts for deeds
The covenant implied by law by which a landlord guarantees that a tenant may take possession of leased premises and that the landlord will not interfere in the tenant's possession or use of the property.
On a closing statement, an amount entered in a person's favor--either an amount the party has paid or an amount for which the party must be reimbursed.
A life estate, usually a fractional interest, given by some states to the surviving husband in real estate owned by his deceased wife. Most states have abolished curtesy.
A third party for whom some level of service is provided.
A horizontal plane from which heights and depths are measured.
On a closing statement, an amount charged; that is, an amount that the debited party must pay.
A person who has died.
The voluntary transfer of private property by its owner to the public for some public use, such as for streets or schools.
A written instrument that, when executed and delivered, conveys title to or an interest in real estate.
A deed given by the mortgagor to the mortgagee when the mortgagor is in default under the terms of the mortgage. This is a way for the mortgagor to avoid foreclosure.
An instrument that grants a trustee under a land trust full power to sell, mortgage, and subdivide a parcel of real estate. The beneficiary controls the trustee's use of these powers under the provisions of the trust agreement.
See trust deed
See trust deed lien
Clauses in a deed limiting the future uses of he property. Deed restrictions may impose a vast variety of limitations and conditions--for example, they may limit the density of buildings, dictate the types of structures that can be erected, or prevent buildings from being used for specific purposes or even from being used at all.
The nonperformance of a duty, whether arising under a contract or otherwise; failure to meet an obligation when due.
A clause used in leases and mortgages that cancels a specified right upon the occurrence of a certain condition, such as cancellation of a mortgage upon repayment of mortgage loan.
An estate in which the holder has a fee simple title that may be divested upon the occurrence or nonoccurrence of specified event. There are two categories of defeasible fee estates: fee simple on condition precedent (fee simple determinable) and fee simple on condition subsequent.
A personal judgment levied against the borrower when a foreclosure sale does not produce sufficient funds to pay the mortgage dept in full.
The amount of goods people are willing and able to buy at a given price; often coupled with supply.
Zoning ordinances that restrict the maximum average number of houses per acre that may be built within a particular area, generally a subdivision.
(1) In appraisal, a loss of value in property due to any cause, including physical deterioration, functional obsolescence, and external obsolescence. (2) In real estate investment, an expense deduction for tax purposes taken over the period of ownership of income property.
Acquisition of an estate by inheritance in which an heir succeeds to the property by operation of law.
A licensee authorized by a broker to act as the agent for a specific principal in a particular transaction.
One who attempts to put land to its most profitable use through the construction of improvements.
A gift of real property by will. The donor is the devisor, and the recipient is the devisee.
A unit of measurement used for various loan charges; one point equals 1 percent of the amount of the loan.
A property that includes in its ownership the appurtenant right to use an easement over another person's property for a specific purpose.
The legal right or interest, recognized in some states, that a wife acquires in the property her husband held or acquired during their marraige. During the husband's lifetime the right is only a possibility of an interest; upon his death it can become an interest in land.
Representing both parties to a transaction. This is unethical unless both parties agree to it, and it is illegal in many states.
A provision in the mortgage that states that the entire balance of the note is immediately due and payable if eh mortgagor transfers (sells) the property.
Unlawful constraint or action exercised upon a person whereby the person is forced to perform an act against his or her will. A contract entered into under duress is voidable.
Money deposited by a buyer under the terms of a contract, to be forfeited if the buyer defaults but applied to the purchase price if the sale is closed.
A right to use land of another for a specific purpose, such as for the right-of-way or utilities; an incorporeal interest in land.
An easement created by the government or government agency that has exercised its right under eminent domain.
An easement allowed by law as necessary for the full enjoyment of a parcel of real estate; for example, a right of ingress and egress over a grantor's land
An easement that is not created for the benefit of any land owned by the owner of easement but that attaches personally to the easement owner. For example, a right granted by Eleanor Franks to Joe Fish to use a portion of her property for the rest of his life would be and easement in gross.
The number of years during which an improvement will add value to the land.
Growing crops, such as grapes and corn, that are produced annually through labor and industry; also called fructus industriales.
The right of a government or municipal quasi-public body to acquire property for public use through a court action called condemnation, in which the court decides that the use and determines the compensation to be paid to the owner.
Someone who works as a direct employee of and employer and has employee status. The employer is obligated to withhold income taxes and Social Security taxes from the compensation of employees. See also independent contractor.
A document evidencing formal employment between employer and employee or between principal and agent. In the real estate business this generally takes the form of a listing agreement or management agreement.
State legislation that confers zoning powers on municipal governments.
A method of controlling environmental contamination by sealing off a dangerous substance.
A building or some portion of it--a wall or fence for instance--that extends beyond the land of the owner and illegally intrudes on some land of an adjoining owner or a street or alley.
Anything--such as a mortgage, tax or judgment lien, an easement, a restriction on the use of the land or an outstanding dower right--that may diminish the value or use and enjoyment of a property.
The federal law that prohibits discrimination in the extension of credit because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or marital status.
The raising or lowering of assessed values for tax purposes in a particular county or taxing district to make them equal to assessments in other counties or districts.
A factor (number) by which the assessed value of a property is multiplied to arrive at a value for a property that is in line with statewide tax assessments. The ad valorem tax would be bases on this adjusted value.
See statutory lien
The right of a defaulted property owner to recover the property prior to its sale by paying the appropriate fees and charges.
The interest held by a vendee under a contract for deed or an installment contract; the equitable right to obtain absolute ownership to property when legal title is held in another's name.
The interest or value that an owner has in property over and above any indebtedness.
The gradual wearing away of land by water, wind, and general weather conditions; the diminishing of property by the elements.
The reversion of property to the state or county, as provided by state law, in cases where a decedent dies intestate without heirs capable of inheriting, or when the property is abandoned.
The closing of a transaction through a third party called an escrow agent, or escrowee, who receives certain funds and documents to be delivered upon the performance of certain conditions outlined in the escrow instructions.
The trust account established by a broker under the provisions of the license law for the purpose of holding funds on behalf of the broker's principal or some other person until the consummation or termination of the transaction.
An agreement between a buyer, seller, and escrow holder setting forth rights and responsibilities of each. An escrow contract is entered into when earnest money is deposited in a broker's escrow account.
A document that sets forth the duties of the escrow agent, as well as the requirements and obligations of the parties, when a transaction is closed through an escrow.
The tenancy of a lessee who lawfully comes into possession of landlord's real estate but who continues to occupy the premises improperly after his or her lease rights have expired.
An estate that gives the lessee the right to possession until the estate is terminated by either party; the term of this estate is indefinite.
An interest for a certain, exact period of time in property leased for a specified consideration.
An interest in lease property that continues from period to period-- week to week, month to month, or year to year.
The degree, quantity, nature, and extent of interest a person has in real property.
Federal taxes on a decedent's real and personal property.
Method of creating an agency relationship in which someone states incorrectly that another person is his or her agent and a third person relies on that representation.
A document in which a borrower certifies the amount owed on a mortgage loan and the rate of interest.
The system of moral principles and rules that become standards for professional conduct.
A legal process to oust a person from possession of real estate.
Proof of ownership of property; commonly a certificate of title, an abstract of title with lawyer's opinion, title insurance, or a Torrens registration certificate.
A transaction in which all or part of the consideration is the transfer of like-kind property (such as real estate for real estate).
A listing contract under which the owner appoints a real estate broker and his or her exclusive agent for a designated period of time to sell the property, on the owner's stated terms, for a commission. The owner reserves the right to sell without paying anyone a commission if he or she sells to a prospect who has not been introduced or claimed by the broker.
A listing contract under which the owner appoints a real estate broker as his or her exclusive agent for a designated period of time, to sell the property on the owner's stated terms, and agrees to pay the broker a commission when the property is sold, whether by the broker, the owner, or another broker.
A contract in which all parties have fulfilled their promises and thus performed the contract.
The signing and delivery of an instrument. Also, a legal order directing an official to enforce a judgment against the property of a debtor.
A contract under which something remains to be done by one or more of the parties.
An agency relationship based on a formal agreement between the parties.
An oral or written contract in which the parties state the contract's terms and express their intentions in words.
See express agreement
Reduction in a property's value caused by outside factors (those that are off the property).
Incurable depreciation caused by factors not on subject property, such as environmental, social, or economic factors.
See nonagent
The federal law that prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, and national origin.
A quasi-governmental agency established to purchase any kind of mortgage loans in the secondary mortgage market form the primary lenders.
A federal agency of the Department of Agriculture that offers programs to help families purchase or operate family farms.
An agency that operates similarly to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, but for agricultural loans.
An agency of the federal government that provides credit assistance to farmers and other individuals who live in rural areas.
An independent federal agency that insures the deposits in commercial banks.
See Freddie Mac
See Fannie Mae
The country's central banking system, which is responsible for the nation's monetary policy by regulation the supply of money and interest rates.
Arrangement where a consumer asks a licensee to perform specific real estate services for a set fee.
The highest interest in real estate recognized by the law; the holder is entitled to all rights to the property.
The maximum possible estate or right of ownership of real property, continuing forever.
See defeasible fee estate
A fee simple estate qualified by a special limitation. Language used to describe limitation includes the words, "so long as" or "while" or "during."
A system of ownership usually associated with pre-colonial England, in which the king or other sovereign is the source of all rights. The right to possess real property was granted by the sovereign to an individual as a life estate only. Upon the death of the individual, title passed back to the sovereign, not to the decedent's heirs.
A loan insured by the Federal Housing administration and made by an approved lender in accordance with the FHA's regulations.
One in whom trust and confidence is placed; a reference to a broker employed under the terms of a listing contract or buyers agency agreement.
A relationship of trust and confidence, as between trustee and beneficiary, attorney and client, or principal and agent.
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS REFORM, RECOVERY, AND ENFORCEMENT ACT The act restructured the savings and loan association regulatory system; enacted in response to the savings and loan crisis of the 1980's.
See uniform Commercial Code
The government's policy in regard to taxation and spending programs. The balance between these two areas determines the amount of money the government will withdraw from or feed into the economy, which can counter economic peaks and slumps.
An item of personal property that has been converted to real property by being permanently affixed to the realty.
A legal procedure whereby property used as security for a debt in the event of default in payment of the mortgage note or default of other terms in the mortgage document. The foreclosure procedure brings the rights of all parties to conclusion and passes the title in the mortgaged property to either the holder of the mortgage or a third party who may purchase the realty at the foreclosure sale, free of all encumbrances affecting the property subsequent to the mortgage.
A parcel of land less than 160 acres, usually found at the edge of a rectangular survey.
Deception intended to cause a person to give up property or a lawful right.
A corporation established to purchase primarily conventional mortgage loans in the secondary mortgage market.
An estate in land in which ownership is for an indeterminate length of time, in contrast to a leasehold estate.
The measurement of a parcel of land by the number of feet of street or road frontage.
A loss of value to an improvement to real estate arising from functional problems, often caused by age or poor design.
A person's present right to and interest in real property that will not result in possession or enjoyment until some time in the future, such as a reversion or right of reentry.
A defect in the chain of title of a particular parcel of real estate; a missing document or conveyance that raises doubt as to the present ownership of the land.
One who is authorized by a principal to represent the principal in a specific range of matters.
The right of a creditor to have all of the debtor's property--both real and personal--sold to satisfy a debt.
See partnership
A tax which is made up of the taxes levied on the real estate by government agencies and municipalities.
A deed in which the grantor fully warrants good clear title to the premises. Used in most real estate deed transfers, a general warranty deed offers the greatest protection of any deed.
A government agency that plays an important role in the secondary mortgage market. It sells mortgage-backed securities that are backed by pools of FHA and VA loans.
The 24-mile square parcels composed of 16 townships in the rectangular (government) survey system of legal description.
Fractional sections in the rectangular (government) survey system that are less than one quarter-section in area.
See Ginnie Mae
See rectangular (government) survey system.
A loan in which the monthly principal and interest payments increase by a certain percentage each year for a certain number of years and then level off for the remaining loan term.
A person who receives a conveyance of real property from a grantor.
Words in a deed of conveyance that stat the grantor's intention to convey the property at the present time. This clause is generally worded as "convey and warrant"; "grant"; "grant, bargain, and sell"; or the like.
The person transferring title to or an interest in real property to a grantee.
A figure used as a multiplier of the gross annual income of a property to produce an estimate of the property's value
A lease of property according to which a landlord pays all property charges regularly incurred through ownership, such as repairs, taxes, insurance, and operating expenses. Most residential leases are gross leases.
The figure used as a multiplier of the gross monthly income of a property to produce an estimate of the property's value.
A lease of land only, on which the tenant usually owns a building or is required to build as specified in the lease. Such leases are usually long-term net leases; the tenant's rights and obligations continue until the lease expires or is terminated through default.
A loan in which the monthly payments increase annually, with the increased amount being used to reduce directly the principal balance outstanding and thus shorten the overall term of the loan.
That part of a deed beginning with the words "to have and to hold", following the granting clause and defining the extent of ownership the grantor is conveying.
One who might inherit or succeed to an interest in land under state law of descent when the owner dies without leaving a valid will.
The possible use of a property that would produce the greatest net income and thereby develop the highest value.
A tenancy whereby a lessee retains possession of leased property after the lease has expired and the landlord, by continuing to accept rent, agrees to the tenant's continued occupancy as defined by state law.
A will that is written, dated, and signed in the testator's handwriting.
A loan (sometimes called a line of credit) under which a property owner uses his or her residence as collateral and can then draw funds up to a prearranged amount against the property.
A standardized package insurance policy that covers a residential real estate owner against financial loss from fire, theft, public liability, and other common risks.
Land that is owned and occupied as the family home. In many states a portion of the area or value of this land is protected or exempt from judgments for debts.
To pledge property as security for an obligation or loan without giving up possession of it.
Based on the actions of the parties which imply that they have mutually consented to an agency relationship, and implied agency relationship is formed.
A contract under which the agreement of the parties is demonstrated by their acts and conduct.
See implied agreement
A theory in landlord/tenant law in which the landlord renting residential property implies that the property is habitable and fit for its intended use.
(1) Any structure, usually privately owned, erected on a site to enhance the value of the property--for example, building a fence or a driveway. (2) A publicly owned structure added to or benefiting land, such as a curb, sidewalk, street or sewer.
The process of estimating the value of an income-producing property through capitalization of the annual net income expected to be produced by the property during its remaining useful life.
A nonpossessory right in real estate; for example, an easement or a right-of-way.
Someone who is retained to perform a certain act but who is subject to the control and direction of another only as to the end result and no as to the way in which the act is performed. Unlike an employee, an independent contractor pays for all expenses and Social Security and income taxes and receives no employee benefits. Most real estate salespeople are independent contractors.
The appraisal method of estimating building costs by multiplying the original cost of the property by a percentage factor to adjust for current construction costs.
The gradual reduction of the purchasing power of the dollar, usually related directly to the increases in the money supply by the federal government.
State-imposed taxes on a decedent's real and personal property.
Notice the law presumes a reasonable person would obtain by inquiring into a property.
A contract for the sale of real estate whereby the purchase price is paid in periodic installments by the purchaser, who is in possession of the property even thought title is retained by the seller until a future date, which may be not until final payment. Also called contract for deed or articles of agreement for warranty deed.
A transaction in which the sales price is paid in two or more installments over two or more years. If the sale meets certain requirements, a taxpayer can postpone reporting such income until future years by paying tax each year only on the proceeds received that year.
A charge made by a lender for the use of money.
A short-term loan usually made during the construction phase of a building project (in the case often referred to as a construction loan).
Adopted by a number of states, a theory based on the principles of title theory but requires the mortgagee foreclose to obtain legal title.
A federal law that regulates the sale of certain real estate in interstate commerce.
The condition of a property owner who dies without leaving a valid will. Title to the property will pass to the decendent's heirs as provided in the state law of descent.
An appraisal term referring to the value created by a person's personal preferences for a particular type of property.
An action brought by a property owner seeking just compensation for land taken for use when the taker of the property does not intend to bring eminent domain proceedings. Property is condemned because its use and value have been diminished due to an adjacent property's public use.
Money directed toward the purchase, improvement, and development of an asset in expectations of income or profits.
See Alienation
A lien place on property without the consent of the property owner.
Each of the individual owners is personally responsible for the total damages.
Ownership of real estate between two or more parties who have been named in one conveyance as joint tenants. Upon the death of a joint tenant, the decedent's interest passes to the surviving joint tenant or tenants by the right of survivorship.
The joining of two or ore people to conduct a specific business enterprise. A joint ventures is similar to a partnership in that it must be created by agreement between the parties to share in the losses and profits of the venture. It is unlike a partnership in that the ventures is for one specific project only, rather than for a continuing business relationship.
The formal decision of a court upon the respective rights and claims of the parties to an action or suit. After a judgment has been entered and recorded with the county recorder, it usually becomes a general lien on the property of the defendant.
In law, the requirements established by prior court decisions.
An obligation, such as a second mortgage, that is subordinate in right or lien priority to an existing lien on the same realty.
An equitable doctrine used by courts to bar a legal claim or prevent the assertion of a right because of undue delay or failure to assert the claim or right.
The earth's surface, extending downward to the center of the earth and upward infinitely into space, including things permanently attached by nature, such as trees and water.
See installment contract
A hidden structural defect that could not be discovered by ordinary inspection and that threatens the property's soundness or the safety of its inhabitants. Some states impose on sellers and licensees a duty to inspect for and disclose latent defects.
See agency
A written or oral contract between a landlord (the lessor) and a tenant (the lessee) that transfers the right to exclusive possession and use of the landlord's real property to the lessee for a specified period of time and for a stated consideration (rent). By state law leases for longer than a certain period of time (generally one year) must be in writing to be enforceable.
A tenant's right to occupy real estate during the term of a lease, generally considered to be a personal property interest.
A lease under which the tenant has the right to purchase the property either during the lease term or at its end.
The purchase of real property, the consummation of which is preceded by a lease, usually long-term. Typically done for tax or financing purposes.
A disposition of money or personal property by will.
A description of a specific parcel of real estate complete enough for an independent surveyor to locate and identify it.
People who are recognized by law as being able to contract with others; those of legal age and sound mind.
See lease
See lease
The use of borrowed money to finance an investment.
To assess; to seize or collect. To levy a tax is to assess a property and set the rate of taxation. To levy an execution is to officially seize the property of a person in order to satisfy an obligation.
(1) A privilege or right granted to a person by a state to operate as a real estate broker or salesperson. (2) The revocable permission for a temporary use of land--a personal right that cannot be sold
A right given by law to certain creditors to have their debts paid out of the property of a defaulting debtor, usually by means of a court sale.
Some states interpret a mortgage as being purely a lien on real property. The mortgagee thus has no right of possession but must foreclose the lien and sell the property if the mortgagor defaults.
In property management, comparing one type of equipment with another based on both purchase cost and operation cost over its expected useful lifetime.
An interest in real or personal property that is limited in duration to the lifetime of its owner or some other designated person or persons.
A person in possession of a life estate.
See partnership
An amount predetermined by the parties to a contract as the total compensation to an injured party should the other party breach the contract.
The ability to sell an asset and convert it into cash, at a price close to its true value, in a short period of time.
A recorded legal document giving constructive notice that an action affecting a particular property has been filed in either a state or a federal court.
A contract between and owner (as principal) and a real estate broker (as agent) by which the broker is employed as agent to find a buyer for the owner's real estate on the owner's terms, for which serve the owner agrees to pay a commission.
The broker in a multiple-listing situation from whose office a listing agreement is initiated, as opposed to the cooperating broker, from whose office negotiations leading up to a sale are initiated. The listing broker and the cooperating broker may be the same person.
(1) A landowner's claim to use water in large navigable lakes and oceans adjacent to his or her property. (2) The ownership rights to land bordering these bodies of water up to the high-water mark.
A fee charged to the borrower by the lender for making a mortgage loan. The fee is usually computed as a percentage of the loan amount.
The relationship between the amount of the mortgage loan and the value of the real estate being pledged as collateral.
A method of describing real property that identifies a parcel of land by reference to lot and block numbers within a subdivision, as specified on a recorded subdivision plat.
A contract between the owner of income property and a management firm or individual property manager that outlines the scope of the manager's authority.
A place where goods can be bought and sold and a price established.
Good or clear title, reasonably free from the risk of litigation over possible defects.
(Also known as the sales comparison approach) An estimate of value obtained by comparing property being appraised with recently sold comparable properties.
The most probable price property would bring in an arm's-length transaction under normal conditions on the open market.
A comprehensive plan to guide the long-term physical development of a particular area.
A Statutory lien created in favor of contractors, laborers, and material men who have performed work or furnished materials in the erection or repair of a building.
Federal legislation that promotes the establishment of state registration systems to maintain residential information on every person who kidnaps children, commits sexual crimes against children, or commits sexually violent crimes.
One of a set of imaginary lines running north and south and crossing a base line at a definite point, used in the rectangular (government) survey system of property description.
A legal description of a parcel of land that begins at a well-marked point and follows the boundaries, using directions and distances around the tract, back to the place of beginning.
One-tenth of one cent. Some states use a mill rate to compute real estate taxes; for example, a rate of 52 mills would be $0.052 tax for each dollar of assessed valuation of a property.
Someone who has not reached the age of majority and therefore does not have legal capacity to transfer title to real property.
Governmental regulation of the amount of money in circulation through such institutions as the Federal Reserve Board.
A periodic tenancy under which the tenant rents for one month at a time. In the absence of a rental agreement (oral or written) a tenancy is generally considered to be month to month.
A fixed natural or artificial object used to establish real estate boundaries for a metes-and-bounds description.
A conditional transfer or pledge of real estate as security for the payment of a debt. Also the document creating a mortgage lien.
Mortgage loan companies that originate, service, and sell loans to investors.
An agent of a lender who brings the lender and borrower together. The broker receives a fee for this service.
A lender in a mortgage loan transaction.
A lien or charge on the property of a mortgagor that secures the underlying debt obligations.
A borrower in a mortgage loan transaction.
Insurance policies that offer protection from a range of potential perils, such as those of a fire, hazard, public liability, and casualty.
A provision in an exclusive listing for the authority and obligation on the part of the listing broker to distribute the listing to other brokers in the multiple-listing organization.
A marketing organization composed of member brokers who agree to share their listing agreements with one another in the hope of procuring ready, willing, and able buyers for their properties more quickly that they could on their won. Most multiple-listing services accept exclusive-right-to-sell or exclusive-agency listings from their member brokers.
A written promise or order to pay a specific sum of money that may be transferred by endorsement or delivery. The transferee then has the original payee's right to payment.
A lease requiring the tenant to pay not only rent but also costs incurred in maintaining the property, including taxes, insurance, utilities, and repairs.
A listing based on the net price the seller will receive if the property is sold. Under a net listing the broker can offer the property for sale at the highest price obtainable to increase the commission. This type of listing is illegal in many states.
The income projected for an income-producing property after deducting losses for vacancy and collection and operating expenses.
An intermediary between a buyer and seller, or landlord and tenant, who assists both parties with a transaction without representing either. Also known as a facilitator, transaction broker, transaction coordinator, and contract broker.
A use of property that is permitted to continue after a zoning ordinance prohibiting it has been established for the area.
A lack of uniformity; dissimilarity. Because no two parcels of land are exactly alike, real estate is said to be nonhomogeneous.
See promissory note.
Substituting a new obligation for an old one or substituting new parties to an existing obligation.
An oral will declared by the testator in his or her final illness, made before witnesses and afterward reduced to writing.
The loss of value due to factors that are outmoded or less useful. Obsolescence may be functional or economic.
A permit issued by the appropriate local governing body to establish that the property is suitable for habitation by meeting certain safety and health standards.
Two essential components of a valid contract; a "meeting of the minds".
The person who makes the offer is the offeror. The person whom the offer is made is the Offeree
A government agency which governs the practices of fiduciary lenders. OTS was created by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act
A mortgage loan that is expandable by increments up to a maximum dollar amount, the full loan being secured by the same original mortgage.
A listing contract under which the broker's commission is contingent on the broker's producing a ready, willing, and able buyer before the property is old by the seller or another broker.
An agreement to keep open for a set period and offer to sell or purchase property.
Listing with a provision that gives the listing broker the right to purchase the listed property.
A form of implied agency relationship created by the actions of the parties involved rather than by written agreement or document.
A real estate loan used to finance the purchase of both real property and personal property, such as in the purchase of a new home that includes carpeting, window coverings, and major appliances.
Oral or verbal evidence.
A role of evidence providing that a written agreement is the final expression of the agreement of the parties, not to be varied or contradicted by prior or contemporaneous oral or written negotiations.
A mortgage loan wherein the lender has a partial equity interest in the property or receives a portion of the income from the property.
The division of cotenants' interests in real property when the parties do not all voluntarily agree to terminate the co-ownership; takes place through court procedures.
An association of two or more individuals who carry on a continuing business for profit as co-owners. Under the law, a partnership is regarded as a group of individuals rather than a single entity. A general partnership is a typical form of joint venture in which each general partner shares in the administration, profits, and losses of the operation. A limited partnership is a business arrangement whereby the operation is administered by one or more general partners and funded, by and large, by limited or silent partners, who are by law responsible for losses only to the extent of their investments.
A wall that is located on or at a boundary line between two adjoining parcels of land and is used or is intended to be used by the owners of both properties.
A grant or franchise of land from the United States government.
The limit on the amount the monthly payment can be increased on an adjustable-rate mortgage when the interest rate is adjusted.
See reduction certificate
A lease, commonly used for commercial property, whose rental is based on the tenant's gross sales at the premises; it usually stipulates a base monthly rental plus a percentage of any gross sales above a certain amount.
A test of the soil to determine if it will absorb and drain water adequately to use a septic system for sewage disposal.
See estate from period to period.
Items called chattels, that do not fit into the definition of real property; movable objects.
A reduction in a property's value resulting from a decline in physical condition; can be caused by action of the elements or by ordinary wear and tear.
A planned combination of diverse land uses, such as housing, recreation, and shopping, in one contained development or subdivision.
A detailed map that illustrates the geographic boundaries of individual lots.
A map of a town, section, or subdivision indicating the location and boundaries of individual properties.
The increased in value or utility resulting from the consolidation (assemblage) of two or more adjacent lots into one larger lot.
In a metes-and-bounds legal description, the starting point of the survey, situated in one corner of the parcel; all metes-and-bounds descriptions must follow the boundaries of the parcel back to the point of beginning.
The government's right to impose laws, statutes, and ordinances, including zoning ordinances and building codes, to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.
A written instrument authorizing a person, the attorney-in-fact, to act as agent for another person to the extent indicated in the instrument.
On a closing statement, items that have been paid in advance by the seller, such as insurance premiums and some real estate taxes, for which he or she must be reimbursed by the buyer.
A charge imposed on a borrower who pays off the loan principal early. The penalty compensates the lender for interest and other charges that would otherwise be lost.
See antitrust laws.
The mortgage market in which loans are originated and consisting of lenders such as commercial banks, savings and loan associations, and mutual savings banks.
(1) A sum loaned or employed as a fund or an investment, as distinguished from its income or profits. (2) The original amount (as in a loan) of the total due and payable at a certain date. (3) A main party to a transaction--the person for whom the agent works.
The main imaginary line running north and south and crossing a base line at a definite point, used by surveyors for reference in locating and describing land under the rectangular (government) survey system of legal description.
A concept of water ownership in which the landowner's right to use available water is based on a government-administered permit system
The order of position or time. The priority of liens is generally determined by the chronological order in which the lien documents are recorded; tax liens, however, have priority even over previously recorded liens.
Insurance provided by private carrier that protects a lender against a loss in the event of a foreclosure and deficiency.
A legal process by which a court determines who will inherit a decedent's property and what the estate's assets are.
The effort that brings about the desired result. Under an open listing the broker who is the procuring cause of the sale receives the commission.
An appraisal principle that states that, between dissimilar properties, the value of the lesser-quality property is favorably affected by the presence of the better-quality property.
A financing instrument that states the terms of the underlying obligation, is signed by its maker, and is negotiable (transferable to a third party).
Someone who manages real estate for another person for compensation. Duties include collecting rents, maintaining the property, and keeping up all accounting.
The mandatory federal and state documents compiled by subdividers and developers to provide potential purchasers with facts about a property, prior to their purchase.
A lease given by the corporation that owns a cooperative apartment building to the shareholder for the shareholder's right as a tenant to an individual apartment.
Expenses, either prepaid or paid in arrears, that are divided or distributed between buyer and seller at the closing.
Any group of people designated as such by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in consideration of federal and state civil rights legislation. Currently includes ethnic minorities, women, religious groups, the handicapped, and others.
Exaggerated or superlative comments or opinions.
"For the life of another." A life estate pur autre vie is a life estate that is measured by the life of a person other than the grantee.
A note secured by a mortgage or deed of trust given by a buyer, as borrower, to a seller, as lender, as part of the purchase price of the real estate.
The process of acquiring additional properties by refinancing properties already owned and investing the loan proceeds in additional properties.
The appraisal method of estimating building costs by calculating the cost of all the physical components in the improvements, adding the cost to assemble them, and then including the indirect costs associated with such construction.
A court action to remove a cloud on the title.
A conveyance by which the grantor transfers whatever interest he or she has in the real estate, without warranties or obligations.
A naturally occurring gas that is suspected of causing lung cancer.
A strip of land six miles wide, extending north and south and numbered east and west according to its distance from the principal meridian in the rectangular (government) survey system of legal description.
The limit on the amount the interest rate can be increase at each adjustment period in an adjustable-rate loan. The cap may also set the maximum interest rate that can be charged during the life of the loan.
Method of creating an agency relationship in which the principal accepts the conduct of someone who acted without prior authorization as the principal's agent.
One who is prepared to buy property on the seller's terms and is ready to take positive steps to consummate the transaction.
Land; a portion of the earth's surface extending downward to the center of the earth and upward infinitely into space, including all things permanently attached to it, whether naturally or artificially.
See syndicate.
Trust ownership of real estate by a group of individuals who purchase certificates of ownership in the trust, which in turn invests the money in real property and distributes the profits back to the investors free of corporate income tax.
State law enacted to protect the public from fraud, dishonesty, and incompetence in the purchase and sale of real estate.
A tax entity that issues multiple classes of investor interests (securities) backed by a pool of mortgages.
A fund established in some states from real estate license revenues to cover claims of aggrieved parties who have suffered monetary damage through the actions of a real estate licensee.
The federal law that requires certain disclosures to consumers about mortgage loan settlements. The law also prohibits the payment or receipt of kickbacks and certain kinds of referral fees.
The interests, benefits, and rights inherent in real estate ownership.
A registered trademark term reserved for the sole use of active members of local REALTOR® boards affiliated with the National Association of REALTORS®.
The final step in the appraisal process, in which the appraiser combines the estimates of value receive from the sales comparison, cost, and income approaches to arrive at a final estimate of market value for the subject property.
A deed used by a trustee under a deed of trust to return title to the trustor.
The act of entering or recording documents affecting or conveying interests in real estate in the recorder's office established in each county. Until it is recorded, a deed or mortgage ordinarily is not effective against subsequent purchasers or mortgagees.
A system established in 1785 by the federal government, providing for surveying and describing land by reference to principal meridians and base lines.
The right of a defaulted property owner to recover his or her property by curing the default.
A period of time established by state law during which a property owner has the right to redeem his or her real estate from a foreclosure or tax sale by paying the sales price, interest, and costs. Many states do not have mortgage redemption laws.
The illegal practice of a lending institution denying loans or restricting their number for certain areas of a community.
The document signed by a lender indicating the amount required to pay a loan balance in full and satisfy the debt; used in the settlement process to protect both the seller's and the buyer's interests.
An appraisal principle that states that, between dissimilar properties, the value of the better-quality property is affected adversely by the presence of the lesser-quality property.
Implements the Truth-in-Lending Act requiring credit institutions to inform borrowers of the true cost of obtaining credit.
A document, also known as a deed of reconveyance, that transfers all rights given to a trustee under a deed of trust loan back to the grantor after the loan has been fully repaid.
The remnant of an estate that has been conveyed to take effect and be enjoyed after the termination of a prior estate, such as when an owner conveys a life estate to one party and the remainder to another.
A fixed, periodic payment made by a tenant of a property to the owner for possession and use, usually by prior agreement of the parties.
A statement of a proposed rental rates, determined by the owner of the property manager or both, based on a building's estimated expenses, market supply and demand, and the owner's long-range goals for the property.
The construction cost at current prices of a property that is not necessarily an exact duplicate of the subject but serves the same purpose or function as the original.
The construction cost at current prices of an exact duplicate of the subject property.
The practice of one party canceling or terminating a contract, which has effect of returning the parties to their original positions before the contract was made.
The organization created by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act (FIRREA) to liquidate the assets of failed savings and loans associations.
A clause in a deed that limits the way the real estate ownership may be used.
Liability is not limited to the current owner, but includes people who have owned the site in the past.
A loan under which the homeowner receives monthly payments based on his or her accumulated equity rather than a lump sum. The loan must be repaid at a prearranged date, or upon death of the owner, or upon the sale of the property.
The remnant of an estate that the grantor holds after granting a life estate to another person.
The return of the rights of possession and quiet enjoyment to the lessor at the expiration of a lease.
See joint tenancy.
The right given by one landowner to another to pass over the land, construct a roadway, or use as a pathway, without actually transferring ownership.
An owner's rights in land that borders on or includes a stream, river, or lake. These rights include access to and use of the water.
Evaluation and selection of appropriate property and other insurance.
Real estate licensing authority orders that govern licensees' activities; they usually have the same force and effect as statutory law.
A transaction in which an owner sells his or her improved property and, as part of the same transaction, signs a long-term lease to remain in possession of the premises.
The process of estimating the value of a property by examining and comparing actual sales of comparable properties.
A person who performs real estate activities while employed by or associated with a licensed real estate broker.
A document acknowledging the payment of a mortgage debt.
A market for the purchase and sale of existing mortgages, designed to provide greater liquidity for mortgages; also called the secondary money market. Mortgage are first originated in the primary mortgage market.
A portion of township under the rectangular (government) survey system. A township is divided into 36 sections, numbered 1 through 36. A section is a square with mile-long sides and an area of one square mile, or 640 acres.
See Uniform Commercial Code.
A payment by a tenant, held by the landlord during the lease term, and kept (wholly or partially) on default, or on destruction of the premises by the tenant.
Under community property law, property owned solely by either spouse before the marriage, acquired by gift or inheritance after the marriage, or purchased with separate funds after the marriage.
Land on which and easement exists in favor of an adjacent property (called a dominant estate); also called a servient estate.
The amount of space local zoning regulations require between a lot line and a building line.
Ownership of real property by one person only, also called sole ownership.
Changing an item of real estate to personal property by detaching it from the land; for example, cutting down a tree.
In an agricultural lease, the agreement between the landowner and the tenant farmer to split the crop or the profit from its sale, actually sharing the crop.
A mortgage loan in which the lender, in exchange for a loan with a favorable interest rate, participates in the profits (if any) the borrower receives when the property is eventually sold.
The personal preference of people for one area over another, not necessarily based on objective facts and knowledge.
One who is authorized by a principal to perform a single act or transaction; a real estate broker is usually a special agent authorized to find a ready, willing, and able buyer for a particular property.
A deed in which the grantor warrants, or guarantees, the title only against defects arising during the period of his or her tenure and ownership of the property and not against defects existing before that time, generally using the language, "by, through, or under the grantor but not otherwise".
A lien affecting or attaching only to a certain, specific parcel of land or piece of property.
A legal action to compel a party to carry out the terms of a contract.
The appraisal method of estimating building costs by multiplying the number of square feet in the improvements being appraised by the cost per square foot for recently constructed similar improvements.
That part of a state law that requires certain instruments, such as deeds, real estate sales contracts, and certain leases, to be in writing to be legally enforceable.
That law pertaining to the period of time within which certain actions must be brought to court.
A lien imposed on property by statue--a tax lien, for example-- in contrast to an equitable lien, which arises out of common law.
The right of a defaulted property owner to recover the property after its sale by paying the appropriate fees and charges.
The illegal practice of channeling home seekers to particular areas, either to maintain the homogeneity of an area or to change the character of an area, which limits their choices of where they can live.
A property that has acquired an undesirable reputation due to and event that occurred on or near it, such as violent crime, gang-related activity, illness, or personal tragedy. Some states restrict the disclosure of information about stigmatized properties.
A method of calculating depreciation for tax purposes, computed by dividing the adjusted basis of a property by the estimated number of years of remaining useful life.
A loan in which only interest is paid during the term of the loan, with the entire principal amount due with the final interest payment.
The owner is responsible to the injured party without excuse.
One who is employed by a person already acting as an agent. Typically a reference to a salesperson licensed under a broker (agent) who is employed under the terms of a listing agreement.
One who buys undeveloped land, divides it into smaller, usable lots, and sells the lots to potential users.
A tract of land divided by the owner, known as the subdivider, into blocks, building lots, and streets according to a recorded subdivision plat, which must comply with local ordinances and regulations.
Municipal ordinances that establish requirements for subdivisions and development.
See plat map.
See subletting.
The leasing of premises by a lessee to a third party for part of the lessee's remaining term. See also assignment.
Relegation to a lesser position, usually in respect to a right or security.
A written agreement between holders of liens on a property that changes the priority of mortgage, judgment, and other liens under certain circumstances.
The substitution of one creditor for another, with the substituted person succeeding to the legal rights and claims of the original claimant. Subrogation is used by title insurers to acquire from the injured party rights to sue in order to recover any claims they have paid.
An appraisal principle that states that the maximum value of a property tends to be set by the cost of purchasing an equally desirable and valuable substitute property, assuming that no costly delay is encountered in making the substitution.
Ownership rights in a parcel of real estate to the water, minerals, gas, oil, and so forth that lie beneath the surface of the property.
A court suit initiated by a landlord to evict a tenant from leased premises after the tenant has breached one of the terms of the lease or has held possession of the property after the lease's expiration.
A court action intended to establish or settle the title to a particular property, especially when there is a cloud on the title.
Popular name of the hazardous-waste cleanup fund established by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).
An amendatory statute that contains stronger cleanup standards for contaminated sites, increased funding for Superfund, and clarifications of lender liability and innocent landowner immunity. See Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).
The amount of goods available in the market to be sold at a given price. The term is often coupled with demand.
The appraisal principle that follows the interrelationship of the supply of and demand for real estate. As appraising is based on economic concepts, this principle recognizes that real property is subject to the influences of the marketplace just as if any other commodity.
An agreement by an insurance or bonding company to be responsible for certain possible defaults, debts, or obligations contracted for by an insured party; in essence, a policy insuring one's personal and/or financial integrity. In the real estate business a surety bond is generally used to ensure that a particular project will be completed at a certain date or that a contract will be performed as stated.
Ownership rights in a parcel of real estate that are limited to the surface of the property and do not include the air above it (air rights) or the mineral below the surface (subsurface rights).
The process by which boundaries are measured and land areas are determined; the on-site measurement of lot lines, dimensions, and position of a house on a lot, including the determination of any existing encroachments or easements.
A combination of people or firms formed to accomplish a business venture of mutual interest by pooling resources. In a real estate investment syndicate, the parties own and/or develop property, with the main profit generally arising from the sale of the property.
Adding or combining successive periods of continuous occupation of real property by adverse possessors. This concept enables someone who has not been in possession for the entire statutory period to establish a claim of adverse possession.
A concept which comes from the takings clause of the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and means that when land is taken for public use through the government's power of eminent domain or condemnation, the owner must be compensated.
The process by which a government or municipal quais-public body raises monies to fund its operation.
An amount by which tax owed is reduced directly.
An instrument, similar to a certificate of sale, given to a purchaser at a tax sale. See also certificate of sale.
A charge against property, created by operation of law. Tax liens and assessments take priority over all other liens.
A court-ordered sale of real property to raise money to cover delinquent taxes.
The joint ownership, recognized in some states, of property acquired by husband and wife during marriage. Upon the death of one spouse the survivor becomes the owner of the property.
A form of co-ownership by which each owner holds and undivided interest in real property as if he or she were sole owner. Each individual owner has the right to partition. Unlike joint tenants, tenants in common have the right of inheritance.
One who holds or possesses lands or tenements by any kind of right or title.
Alterations to the interior of a building to meet the functional demands of the tenant.
Having made and left a valid will.
A person who has made a valid will. A women often is referred to as a testatrix, although testator can be used for either gender.
A strip of land six miles wide, extending east and west and numbered north and south according to its distance from the base line in the rectangular (government) survey system of legal description.
A phrase in a contract that requires the performance of a certain act within a stated period of time.
A form of ownership interest that may include an estate interest in property and that allows use of the property for a fixed or variable time period.
(1) The right to or ownership of land. (2) The evidence of ownership of land.
A policy insuring the owner or mortgagee against loss by reasons of defects in the title to a parcel of real estate, other than encumbrances, defects, and matters specifically excluded by the policy.
The examination of public records relating to real estate to determine the current state of the ownership.
Some states interpret a mortgage to mean that the lender is the owner of mortgaged land. Upon full payment of the mortgage debt, the borrower becomes the landowner.
(Called the federal Fair Housing Act) Prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, or national origin.
A method of evidencing title by registration with the proper public authority, generally called the registrar, named for its founder Sir Robert Torrens.
The principal unit of the rectangular (government) survey system. A township is a square with six-mile sides and an area of 36 square miles.
All the lines in a rectangular survey system that run east and west, parallel to the base line six miles apart.
See tier
Township lines that form strips of land and are designated by consecutive numbers north or south of the base line.
An article installed by a tenant under the terms of a lease and removable by the tenant before the lease expires.
Helps both the buyer and seller with paperwork and formalities in transferring ownership of real property, but is not an agent of either party.
Tax stamps required to be affixed to a deed by state and/or local law.
Specific credit terms, such as down payment, monthly payment, and amount of finance charge or term of loan.
A fiduciary arrangement whereby property is conveyed to a person or institution, called a trustee, to be held and administered on behalf of another person, called a beneficiary. The one who conveys the trust is called the trustor.
An instrument used to create a mortgage lien by which the borrower conveys title to a trustee, who holds it as security for the benefit of the note holder (the lender); also called a deed of trust.
A lien on the property of a trustor that secures a deed of trust loan.
The holder of bare legal title in a deed of trust loan transaction.
A deed executed by a trustee conveying land held in a trust.
A borrower in a deed of trust loan transaction.
Federal government regulates the lending practices of mortgage lenders through this Act.
See tenancy in common.
A contract that has all the elements of a valid contract, yet neither party can sue the other to force performance of it. For example, an unsigned contract is generally unenforceable.
A codification of commercial law, adopted in most states, that attempts to make uniform all laws relating to commercial transactions, including chattel mortgages and bulk transfers. Security interests in chattels are created by an instrument known as a security agreement. To give notice of the security interest, a financial statement must be recorded. Article 6 of the code regulates bulk transfers--the sale of a business as a whole, including all fixtures, chattels, and merchandise.
A special HUD form that itemizes all charges to be paid by a borrower and seller in connection with the settlement.
A one-sided contract wherein one party makes a promise so as to induce a second party to do something. The second party is not legally bound to perform; however, if the second party does comply, the first party is obligated to keep the promise.
The appraisal method of estimating building costs by calculating the costs of all the physical components in the structure, with the cost of each item including its proper installation, connection, etc.; also called the segregated cost method.
The four unities that are traditionally needed to create a joint tenancy--unity of title, time, interest, and possession.
A person empowered to do anything the principal could do personally.
Charging interest at a higher rate than the maximum rate established by state law.
A contract that complies with all the essentials of a contract and is binding and enforceable on all parties to it.
A mortgage loan on approved property made to a qualified veteran by an authorized lender and guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs in order to limit the lender's possible loss.
The power of a good or service to command other goods in exchange for the present worth of future rights to its income or amenities.
Permission obtained from zoning authorities to build a structure or conduct a use that is expressly prohibited by the current zoning laws; an exception from the zoning ordinances.
A buyer, usually under the terms of a land contract.
A seller, usually under the terms of a land contract.
A lien that belongs to a vendor for the unpaid purchase price of land, where the vendor has not taken any other lien or security beyond the personal obligation of the purchaser.
A contract that seems to be valid on the surface but may be rejected or disaffirmed by one or both of the parties.
A contract that has no legal force or effect because it does not meet the essential elements of a contract.
See alienation
An improper use or an abuse of a property by a possessor who holds less than fee ownership, such as a tenant, life tenant, mortgagor, or vendee. Such waste ordinarily impairs the value of the land or the interest of the person holding the title or the reversionary rights.
Common Law rights held by owners of land adjacent to rivers, lakes, or oceans, and includes restrictions on those rights and land ownership.
A written document, property witnesses, providing for the transfer of title to property owned by the deceased, called the testator.
Laws that require an employer to obtain insurance coverage to protect his or her employees who are injured in the course of their employment.
A method of refinancing in which the new mortgage is placed in a secondary, or subordinate, position; the new mortgage includes both the unpaid principal balance of the first mortgage and whatever additional sums are advanced by the lender. In essence it is an additional mortgage in which another lender refinances a borrower by lending an amount over the existing first mortgage amount without disturbing the existence of the first mortgage.
An exercise of police power by a municipality to regulate and control the character and use of property.
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