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1% Rule
The 1% Rule is a principle in real estate investment which posits that the monthly rent of an investment property should be at least 1% of its purchase price. This rule helps investors quickly assess a property’s potential cash flow.
1031 Exchange
A 1031 Exchange, named after Section 1031 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, allows investors to defer capital gains taxes on real estate by reinvesting the proceeds from a sale into a similar property.
2% Rule
The 2% Rule is a more aggressive version of the 1% Rule. It suggests that a rental property’s monthly rent should be at least 2% of the purchase price. This rule is often used in markets where higher rental yields are expected.
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Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a single residential lot, typically used for rental income or housing family members. Examples include basement apartments and guest houses.
Accredited Investor
An Accredited Investor is an individual or entity recognized by securities laws, having a high net worth or income, and thereby allowed to invest in certain high-risk investments not open to the general public.
Acquisition Cost
Acquisition Cost refers to all expenses incurred to acquire a real estate property. This includes the purchase price, closing costs, and any immediate repair or upgrade costs.
Ad Valorem Tax
Ad Valorem Tax is a property tax based on the assessed value of a property, typically used by municipalities for funding local services such as schools, roads, and public works.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)
An Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) is a type of mortgage where the interest rate adjusts over time based on an index. This can lead to changes in the borrower’s monthly payments.
Affordable Housing
Affordable Housing is housing deemed affordable to those with a median household income. It includes a variety of housing types and programs aimed at assisting lower-income residents.
After Repair Value (ARV)
After Repair Value (ARV) is the estimated market value of a property after it has been fully repaired and renovated. This is a common term used in real estate flipping and rehabbing.
Amortization
Amortization is the process of spreading out a loan into a series of fixed payments over time. In real estate, this usually refers to a mortgage payment plan.
Annual Depreciation Allowance
Annual Depreciation Allowance is a tax deduction that allows real estate investors to recover the cost of income-producing properties through yearly tax deductions over the property’s useful life.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is the annual rate charged for borrowing, expressed as a single percentage that represents the actual yearly cost over the term of a loan, including any fees or additional costs.
Anticipated Hold Period
Anticipated Hold Period is the expected length of time a real estate investor plans to own a property before selling it. This influences investment strategy and financial planning.
Appraisal
An Appraisal is a professional assessment of a property’s market value, typically conducted for lending purposes during the mortgage process.
Appraised Value
Appraised Value is the value of a property as determined by a professional appraisal. This value is used by lenders to determine the maximum amount of a mortgage loan.
Appreciation
Appreciation is the increase in the value of a property over time. This can be due to various factors, including market conditions, improvements to the property, or changes in the surrounding area.
Assumable Mortgage
An Assumable Mortgage allows a new buyer to take over the seller’s mortgage terms, including interest rate and remaining balance, subject to lender approval.
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Building Classifications
Building Classifications categorize commercial properties based on various factors such as age, location, and amenities. Common classifications are Class A, Class B, and Class C.
Broker Price Opinion (BPO)
Broker Price Opinion (BPO) is an estimated value of a property, as determined by a real estate broker or other qualified individual, used primarily for listing purposes or in the loan modification process.
BRRR Method
The BRRR Method (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance) is a real estate investment strategy involving purchasing a property, renovating it, renting it out, and then refinancing it to fund additional investments.
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Capital Expenditures (CapEx)
Capital Expenditures (CapEx) are major expenses incurred to improve the value or extend the life of a property, such as roof replacement or major renovations, not to be confused with routine maintenance costs.
Capital Gains Tax
Capital Gains Tax is a tax on the profit made from selling a property for more than its purchase price. It applies to investments, including real estate, and varies based on the length of ownership and other factors.
Capitalization Rate (Cap rate)
The Capitalization Rate (Cap rate) is a metric used in real estate to estimate the return on investment of a property. It is calculated by dividing the Net Operating Income (NOI) by the property’s current market value.
Cash Flow
Cash Flow in real estate is the net amount of cash being transferred in and out of a property, primarily through rental income minus operating expenses and mortgage payments.
Cash-on-Cash Return
Cash-on-Cash Return is a rate of return on a real estate investment, calculated by dividing the property’s annual cash flow by the total cash investment initially made.
Cash-Out Refinance
Cash-Out Refinance is a mortgage refinancing option where the new mortgage amount is larger than the existing one, allowing the borrower to convert home equity into cash.
Clear Title
A Clear Title is a property title free of liens or legal questions about ownership. It’s essential for legal transfer of property ownership.
Closing Costs
Closing Costs are fees and expenses paid during the closing of a real estate transaction, including loan origination fees, title insurance, taxes, and attorney’s fees.
Comparables / Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
Comparables (or Comparative Market Analysis) involve assessing similar, recently sold properties to determine a fair market value for a property being sold or bought.
Commercial Real Estate (CRE)
Commercial Real Estate (CRE) refers to properties used exclusively for business purposes, such as office buildings, shopping centers, and hotels.
Contingent Offer
A Contingent Offer on a property is one that includes conditions (or contingencies) that must be met before the sale can be completed, such as a home inspection or financing.
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Debt-to-Equity Ratio (D/E)
Debt-to-Equity Ratio (D/E) is a measure used to evaluate a company’s financial leverage, calculated by dividing its total liabilities by its shareholder equity.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) is a personal finance measure that compares an individual’s monthly debt payment to their monthly gross income, used by lenders to assess borrowing risk.
Debt Service Coverage Ratio
Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) is a measure of a property’s cash flow available to pay current debt obligations, calculated by dividing the property’s Net Operating Income by its total debt service.
Depreciation
Depreciation in real estate refers to the gradual reduction in the value of a property over time due to wear and tear, age, or obsolescence.
Digital Real Estate
Digital Real Estate involves owning and profiting from online properties, such as websites or domain names, similar to physical real estate investment.
Distressed Property
A Distressed Property is one in poor condition or under financial distress, such as foreclosure or short sale, often sold below market value.
Diversification
Diversification in real estate investing means spreading investments across various markets or property types to reduce risk.
Dividend Yield
Dividend Yield is the annual dividend payment received from an investment (like a Real Estate Investment Trust) divided by the value of the investment, expressed as a percentage.
Dollar-Cost-Averaging (DCA)
Dollar-Cost-Averaging (DCA) is an investment strategy where an investor divides the total amount to be invested across periodic purchases to reduce the impact of volatility on the overall purchase.
Down Payment Assistance
Down Payment Assistance is financial aid, often in the form of grants or loans, available to homebuyers to help cover the initial down payment on a home.
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Earnest Money
Earnest Money is a deposit made by a buyer into an escrow account as a sign of good faith when making an offer on a property.
Effective Gross Income (EGI)
Effective Gross Income (EGI) is the potential income from a rental property plus other income, minus vacancy and credit loss, representing the maximum possible income.
Equity
Equity in real estate refers to the difference between the current market value of a property and the amount the owner still owes on its mortgage.
Escrow
Escrow is a financial arrangement where a third party holds and regulates payment of the funds required for two parties involved in a given transaction.
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Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law that regulates the collection, dissemination, and use of consumer credit information.
Fair Housing Act
The Fair Housing Act is a federal law that prohibits discrimination in the buying, selling, renting, or financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or family status.
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is a U.S. government corporation that provides deposit insurance to depositors in U.S. banks.
FHA Loan
An FHA Loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration, designed for lower-income borrowers unable to make a large down payment.
Financing
Financing in real estate refers to the method of providing funds for property transactions. This often involves mortgages or loans, where a lender provides capital to a buyer, which is then repaid over a specified period, typically with interest. Financing is crucial in enabling buyers to purchase properties that they might not be able to afford upfront.
Fixed-Rate Mortgage
A fixed-rate mortgage is a loan where the interest rate remains constant throughout the term of the loan. This provides predictability in monthly payments, making budgeting easier for borrowers. It is a popular choice for homeowners who prefer stable payments.
Flipping
Flipping involves purchasing a property, often at a lower price due to needing repairs or renovations, and then selling it for a profit after upgrading it. This strategy is used by investors looking for short-term gains rather than rental income.
FMV (Fair Market Value)
Fair Market Value (FMV) is the estimated price an asset would sell for on the open market. In real estate, it’s the price a knowledgeable, willing, and unpressured buyer would likely pay to a knowledgeable, willing, and unpressured seller.
Fractional Ownership
Fractional ownership in real estate refers to a situation where multiple parties own a portion of a property. Each owner has a share of the property and can use it for a certain period each year, common in vacation properties.
FRBO (For Rent by Owner)
FRBO, or “For Rent by Owner,” denotes a property that is available for rent directly from the owner rather than through a leasing agency or property manager. This can sometimes offer cost savings for tenants and more control for owners.
FSBO (For Sale by Owner)
FSBO, or “For Sale by Owner,” refers to properties sold directly by their owners, without the involvement of real estate agents. This approach can save on commission costs but may require more effort from the owner in marketing and selling the property.
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Gross Rent Multiplier (GRM)
The Gross Rent Multiplier is a simple measure to estimate the value of an income-producing property. It’s calculated by dividing the property’s price by its gross rental income. It helps investors compare properties quickly.
Gross Rental Income (GRI)
Gross Rental Income is the total income generated from a rental property before deducting expenses. It includes all rent payments and any additional income from the property, such as laundry facilities or parking fees.
Gross Rental Yield
Gross Rental Yield is a metric used to assess the profitability of a rental property. It’s calculated by dividing the annual rental income by the property’s purchase price or market value, then multiplying by 100 to get a percentage.
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HOA Fees
Homeowners Association (HOA) Fees are monthly or annual charges paid by residents of certain communities to cover maintenance and improvements of shared spaces, amenities, and sometimes certain utilities or services.
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
A Home Equity Line of Credit is a type of loan where homeowners borrow against the equity of their home. The amount borrowed can vary, and it functions similarly to a credit card with the home as collateral.
Home Inspection
A home inspection is a thorough examination of a property’s condition, typically conducted by a professional inspector before the sale of a home. It assesses various aspects, including the structure, systems, and components, to identify any issues.
Home Warranty
A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances that break down over time. It’s different from homeowners’ insurance, which covers damage from specific events.
House Hacking
House hacking involves buying a multi-unit property, living in one unit, and renting out the others. This strategy helps owners offset their living expenses and mortgage payments with rental income.
Housing Market Recession
A housing market recession is a period of decline in the housing market, characterized by decreasing home values, reduced selling prices, and a slowdown in construction and sales activities.
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Income-Producing Assets
Income-producing assets in real estate are properties that generate revenue, such as rental income. These can include residential rentals, commercial buildings, or industrial properties.
Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a tax-advantaged investment account designed to help individuals save for retirement. In real estate, IRAs can sometimes be used to invest in properties or real estate-related assets.
Inflation
Inflation in the context of real estate refers to the increase in property values and rental rates over time, often influenced by the overall rise in prices and decrease in the purchasing power of money.
Inspection Contingency
An inspection contingency in a real estate contract allows a buyer to have the property inspected within a certain period. If significant issues are found, the buyer can renegotiate or withdraw their offer without penalty.
Internal Rate of Return (IRR)
The Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is a metric used in real estate investing to evaluate the profitability of potential investments. It represents the annualized effective compounded return rate and can be used to compare different investments.
IPO
In real estate, an Initial Public Offering (IPO) can refer to the first time a real estate investment trust (REIT) or other property-related company offers shares to the public to raise capital for expansion or other purposes.
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Joint Tenancy
Joint Tenancy is a form of property ownership where two or more parties hold equal rights to the property. If one owner dies, their interest automatically passes to the surviving owners, a principle known as the right of survivorship.
Junior Mortgage
A junior mortgage is a loan secured by the equity in a property, which ranks below the first mortgage in priority. These are often used as home equity loans or second mortgages.
Jumbo Loan
A jumbo loan is a mortgage that exceeds the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). They are typically used to purchase high-priced or luxury properties.
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Kiting
In real estate, kiting refers to the practice of fraudulently inflating the value of a property through a series of sales and resales among colluding parties. This is illegal and unethical.
Key Money
Key money is an informal term that can refer to a non-refundable payment made by a tenant to a landlord, or a buyer to a seller, to secure a rental agreement or a property purchase, respectively. It is more common in commercial real estate.
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Leverage
Leverage in real estate involves using borrowed capital, like a mortgage, to increase the potential return of an investment. It allows investors to purchase more expensive properties than they could afford using only their own funds.
Loan Origination Fee
A loan origination fee is charged by a lender to cover the costs of processing a new loan application. It’s typically a percentage of the loan amount and can include tasks like credit checks and administrative expenses.
Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)
The Loan-to-Value Ratio is a financial term used by lenders to express the ratio of a loan to the value of an asset purchased. In real estate, it’s used to assess the lending risk before approving a mortgage.
Long-Term Rental
Long-term rentals in real estate are properties leased for extended periods, typically a year or more. They provide steady income and long-term tenancy compared to short-term rentals.
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Management Fee
A management fee is a charge by a property management company to a property owner for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a rental property. This includes tasks like collecting rent, handling maintenance, and dealing with tenants.
Mixed-Use Building
A mixed-use building combines residential, commercial, and sometimes industrial spaces in one property. This blend allows for a live-work-play environment, often found in urban areas.
Mortgage
A mortgage is a loan used to purchase real estate, where the property itself serves as collateral. The borrower agrees to pay back the loan, plus interest, over a set period, typically in monthly installments.
Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)
Mortgage Insurance Premium is a fee paid by borrowers for mortgage insurance, typically required on FHA loans when the down payment is less than 20%. It protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on the loan.
Multi-Family Home
A multi-family home is a single building set up to accommodate more than one family living separately. Examples include duplexes, triplexes, and apartment buildings. They’re often used as investment properties.
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Net Asset Value
In real estate investment trusts (REITs), Net Asset Value represents the total value of the properties and assets, minus any liabilities. It’s used to evaluate the worth of an investment in the trust.
Net Cash Flow
Net Cash Flow in real estate is the profit from a property after subtracting all expenses, including mortgage payments, maintenance, taxes, and management fees, from the rental income.
Net Operating Income (NOI)
Net Operating Income is a calculation used to analyze the profitability of income-generating real estate investments. NOI equals all revenue from the property minus operating expenses.
Net Yield
Net Yield is the income return on an investment after accounting for all expenses, including management fees, operating costs, and taxes. It’s expressed as a percentage of the investment’s cost or market value.
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Occupancy Rate
Occupancy rate refers to the ratio of rented or used space compared to the total amount of available space in a property, such as a hotel or rental building. It’s a key metric in evaluating property performance.
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses in real estate are the costs associated with running and maintaining a property. This includes property management fees, insurance, taxes, repairs, and utilities.
Opportunity Zone
Opportunity Zones are economically distressed communities where new investments, under certain conditions, may be eligible for preferential tax treatment. They aim to spur economic development and job creation.
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Pass-Through Taxation
Pass-through taxation is a tax system where the income generated by a business is taxed only at the individual level, avoiding corporate tax. This is common in real estate investment structures like partnerships and S corporations.
PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance)
PITI is the total of a monthly mortgage payment, including principal, interest, property taxes, and homeowner’s insurance. It’s a comprehensive measure of a homeowner’s monthly mortgage-related expenses.
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a type of insurance required by lenders when a homebuyer makes a down payment of less than 20%. It protects the lender if the borrower defaults on the loan.
Portfolio
In real estate, a portfolio refers to the collection of investment properties owned by an individual or company. It represents the diversity and extent of their real estate investments.
Pre-Approval
Pre-approval is a lender’s conditional agreement to lend a specific amount to a buyer, based on their financial standing. It gives buyers a clear idea of their borrowing capacity and strengthens their position in negotiations.
Pre-Qualification
Pre-qualification is an initial evaluation by a lender of a potential borrower’s ability to afford a mortgage, based on their financial information. It gives an estimate of how much the borrower might be approved for.
Price-to-Rent Ratio
The Price-to-Rent Ratio is a calculation used to compare the costs of owning versus renting in a specific area. It’s calculated by dividing the price of a home by the annual rent of a similar property.
Principal
The principal in real estate financing is the amount of money borrowed to purchase a property. It is the core amount on which interest is calculated and does not include any interest or additional fees. Repayments typically cover both principal and interest.
Principal Reduction
Principal reduction refers to the process of reducing the remaining balance of the principal on a mortgage loan. This is achieved through making payments that exceed the monthly interest, thereby decreasing the total amount owed and potentially shortening the loan’s term.
Pro-forma
In real estate, a pro-forma is a detailed financial model or statement projecting the expected revenues, expenses, and cash flows of a property. It’s used by investors to evaluate the profitability and financial feasibility of a real estate investment.
Probate Sale
A probate sale occurs when a property is sold through a court-supervised process, typically because the owner has passed away without designating a beneficiary. The sale is conducted to settle the deceased’s estate and distribute the proceeds among heirs or creditors.
Projected Annual Appreciation
Projected annual appreciation is an estimate of how much a property’s value is expected to increase each year. It’s a crucial factor for investors in making long-term investment decisions and forecasting future returns.
Property Management
Property management involves overseeing and managing real estate properties on behalf of the owner. This includes handling tenant relations, maintenance, rent collection, and compliance with property laws and regulations.
Purchase Agreement
A purchase agreement in real estate is a legal contract outlining the terms and conditions of a property sale. It includes details such as price, closing date, contingencies, and the rights and obligations of both buyer and seller.
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Qualified Business Income (QBI)
Qualified Business Income (QBI) refers to the net income generated from a qualified trade or business under the U.S. tax code. In real estate, this can include income from rental properties, subject to certain limitations and rules.
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Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent is a licensed professional who represents buyers or sellers in real estate transactions. They provide expertise in property listing, negotiation, market trends, and facilitate the buying or selling process.
Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT)
A Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) is a company that owns, operates, or finances income-producing real estate. REITs offer a way for individuals to invest in large-scale, income-generating real estate, typically through the purchase of stocks.
Real Estate Owned (REO)
Real Estate Owned (REO) properties are owned by a lender, typically a bank, after an unsuccessful foreclosure auction. These properties are often sold below market value, making them attractive to investors.
Recession
A recession is a significant decline in economic activity, affecting multiple sectors including real estate. It typically results in decreased property values, lower demand for housing, and can impact investment strategies.
Refinance
Refinancing in real estate involves replacing an existing mortgage with a new one, often to secure a lower interest rate, reduce monthly payments, or change the loan’s term. It can also involve borrowing against a property’s equity.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation in real estate refers to the process of improving a property through repairs and renovations. It aims to enhance the property’s value, functionality, or appeal, often for resale or rental.
Remote Investing
Remote investing is the practice of investing in real estate properties located in a different geographic area than where the investor resides. This approach can diversify an investment portfolio and access different markets.
Rent Control
Rent control is a government policy that limits the amount landlords can charge for renting out a property and regulates how much rent can increase annually. It aims to make housing more affordable for tenants.
Rental Income
Rental income is the earnings a property owner receives from leasing their property to tenants. It is a primary source of cash flow in real estate investments and can include residential, commercial, or industrial properties.
Retail Investors
Retail investors are individual investors who buy and sell securities for their personal accounts, not for an organization. In real estate, they often invest in properties or real estate funds for personal wealth growth.
Rent to Own (RTO)
Rent to Own is an agreement where a tenant rents a property with an option to buy it at the end of the lease term. It allows tenants to live in the home while working towards homeownership.
Return on Assets (ROA)
Return on Assets (ROA) in real estate measures the profitability of properties relative to their total value. It indicates how effectively an investor is using their assets to generate earnings.
Return on Investment (ROI)
Return on Investment (ROI) is a performance measure used to evaluate the efficiency or profitability of an investment in real estate. It compares the return on an investment relative to its cost.
Reverse Mortgage
A reverse mortgage is a loan for senior homeowners that allows them to convert part of their home equity into cash income without selling their home. The loan is repaid when the homeowner sells the property, moves out, or passes away.
Roth IRA
A Roth IRA is a retirement savings account that allows funds to grow tax-free, with tax-free withdrawals in retirement. Real estate investments can be made through a Roth IRA, subject to certain rules and limitations.
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Section 8
Section 8 is a U.S. government-funded program that provides rental assistance to low-income tenants. Landlords who participate in this program receive a portion of the rent from the government, making their properties more accessible to eligible tenants.
Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA)
A Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) is a type of individual retirement account that allows investors to make a wider range of investments, including real estate. It provides more control over investment choices but comes with certain regulations and risks.
Seller Concessions
Seller concessions are benefits a home seller agrees to offer to help facilitate the sale. This can include paying for closing costs, repairs, or offering appliances, often to make the property more attractive to buyers.
Series LLC
A Series LLC is a unique type of limited liability company that allows for the creation of separate entities or ‘series’ under one main LLC. Each series can own distinct assets and have separate liabilities, ideal for managing multiple real estate investments.
Short Sale
A short sale in real estate occurs when a property is sold for less than the amount owed on its mortgage. It’s an alternative to foreclosure, typically used when the homeowner can’t afford to repay the full loan amount.
Short-Term Rental
Short-term rentals are furnished properties rented out for short periods, usually less than 30 days. Popularized by platforms like Airbnb, they are often used for vacation stays or temporary housing.
Single-Family Home (SFH)
A Single-Family Home (SFH) is a standalone residential building designed for one family. It doesn’t share walls with any other houses and typically comes with its own land and amenities.
Squatter
A squatter is someone who occupies an empty or abandoned property without the legal right or permission of the owner. Squatting can lead to legal disputes and challenges for property owners.
Squatters’ Rights
Squatters’ Rights, or adverse possession, allow a squatter to gain legal ownership of a property if they openly inhabit and improve it for a certain period, and the legal owner does not take action to evict them.
Syndication
Real estate syndication is a partnership where multiple investors pool their resources to invest in larger projects than they could individually. It involves a syndicator who manages the investment in exchange for a fee or equity.
Systematic Risk
Systematic risk in real estate refers to the exposure to broader market risks that affect the entire market or asset class. It cannot be eliminated through diversification and includes risks like economic downturns or interest rate changes.
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Tax Deed Sale
A tax deed sale occurs when a property is sold by the government to recover unpaid property taxes. Buyers can acquire properties at potentially lower prices, but these sales often come with legal and financial risks.
Tax Lien
A tax lien is a legal claim by the government against the property of a taxpayer who fails to pay owed taxes. It must be paid off before the property can be sold, ensuring the government’s tax revenues.
Tenant Screening
Tenant screening is the process landlords use to evaluate potential tenants for their properties. It includes checking credit history, criminal background, rental history, and financial stability to ensure reliable and responsible tenants.
Title Insurance
Title insurance protects real estate owners and lenders against loss from title defects, liens, or other issues. It ensures the buyer has clear ownership and guards against legal disputes over the property.
Total Return
Total return in real estate investment includes all sources of income from the property, such as rent, tax benefits, and capital gains from property appreciation, providing a comprehensive view of the investment’s profitability.
Truth in Lending Act
The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) is a U.S. federal law designed to protect consumers in credit transactions by requiring clear disclosure of key terms of the lending arrangement and all costs.
Turnkey (also Turn Key) Property
Turnkey properties are fully renovated and ready-to-use homes or apartments. They are often attractive to investors who wish to own rental properties without the need for immediate repairs or renovations.
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Underwriting
Underwriting in real estate involves assessing the risk of lending money for property purchases. Lenders use underwriting to determine the borrower’s ability to repay a loan, based on factors like credit score, income, and property value.
USDA Home Loan
A USDA home loan is a mortgage offered to rural property buyers by the United States Department of Agriculture. It offers low-interest rates and no down payments, targeting low-to-moderate-income homebuyers.
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Vacancy Provision
A vacancy provision in real estate investing accounts for the potential loss of income due to periods when a rental property is unoccupied. It’s a critical factor in budgeting and forecasting rental property performance.
Vacancy Rate
The vacancy rate is a percentage that indicates the proportion of rental properties in a particular area that are unoccupied during a specific time frame. It is a critical metric for investors and property managers to assess the demand and potential income in a real estate market.
Vacation Rental
A vacation rental refers to a property that is rented out to tourists or travelers for short periods. These properties are often furnished and provide an alternative to hotels, offering features like more space and home-like amenities.
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Wholesaling
In real estate, wholesaling involves an investor agreeing to buy a property and then quickly selling the contract to another buyer at a higher price. This strategy allows the wholesaler to profit without actually purchasing the property.
Wraparound Mortgage
A wraparound mortgage is a type of loan arrangement where an existing mortgage is retained, and a new, larger mortgage is created to encompass the original. It allows a buyer to purchase a property without having to secure a traditional mortgage.
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X-Efficiency
X-efficiency refers to the effectiveness with which a property or a real estate business operates. It encompasses the efficiency in managing resources, reducing waste, and optimizing operational practices to enhance profitability.
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Yield
In real estate, yield is a measure of the return on an investment, expressed as a percentage. It’s calculated by dividing the annual income generated by a property (like rent) by the property’s cost or market value. It’s an essential metric for investors to assess the profitability of rental properties.
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Zoning
Zoning involves the division of land into different zones by local governments, where each zone has specific regulations on the types of buildings and their uses. It plays a crucial role in real estate development and investment, as it dictates what can and cannot be built on a property.
Zero-Down Mortgage
A zero-down mortgage is a loan that finances 100% of a home’s purchase price, eliminating the need for a down payment. These types of loans are rare and usually have specific qualification criteria.