Real Estate Terms
We are committed to making the purchase or sale of your home as simple and easy as possible. During this process, you may encounter real estate terminology that is new to you. Following is a guideline of real estate terms, as well as financial and architectural terms to help you during the purchase or sale of your home.
Abatement
Derived from Latin battere, “abatement” a common legal term meaning “the beating down, removal, or diminishment” of something. For example, lead abatement refers to finding and removing lead paint. Abatement usually refers to “Rent Abatement”, the incentive offered by a landlord, including free rent, early occupancy, or reduction of fees.
Absorption Rate
The rate at which rentable space is filled, divided into gross absorption and net absorption. Gross absorption is a measure of the total square feet leased over a specified period, with no consideration given to space vacated in the same geographic area during the same time period. Net absorption is equal to the amount occupied at the end of a period, minus the amount occupied at the beginning of a period. Net absorption does take into consideration the space vacated during the period
Abstract of Title
Abstract of title is a historical summary of the recorded instruments and proceedings on the title of a property.
Acceleration Clause
A clause in your mortgage which allows the lender to demand payment of the outstanding loan balance for various reasons. The most common reasons for accelerating a loan are if the borrower defaults on the loan or transfers title to another individual without informing the lender.
Adjustable Rate Mortgage or ARM
An ARM is a loan that has a varying interest rate and payment based on an adjustment period. The adjustment is dependent on the variation in a benchmark index, usually the LIBOR or prime rate. This loan is also known as a variable rate mortgage.
Adjusted Sales Price
Adjusted sales price is the price on the contract less all credit concessions by the seller.
Air Rights
Air rights are the legal ability to use or control the space above a property. Air rights can be sold, rented or leased to another party.
Amenities
Amenities are the enhancements that buildings offer its owners or tenants. These usually include a doorman, health club, garage, children’s playroom, common lounge, etc.
Amortization
Amortization is the periodic payment of principal and interest on a liability (including a mortgage), or the write-off of a non-depreciable asset over a scheduled term.
Amortization Schedule
An amortization schedule is the designation of periodic payments of principal and interest toward the principal to eventually pay off a debt.