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Examples Of Common Terms Used In The Real Estate Industry

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As a first-time homebuyer or real estate investor, there are some common terms you should know that will help you understand the home buying process. Although you do not need to learn the entire real estate vocabulary, an understanding of the commonly used terms will give you peace of mind and could save you money in the long run. Here are some of the common terms used in the real estate industry.

Conventional Mortgage
A conventional mortgage adheres to the guidelines set forth by the mortgage agencies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These two agencies are corporations created by the federal government. Each agency buys and sells mortgages offered by banks and lenders. When you apply for a conventional mortgage, the lender will approve or …show more content…

If the appraised value falls short of the loan amount you need, lenders will most likely deny your application for a mortgage.

Closing Costs
Also known as settlement costs, closing costs are the fees you must pay at the closing table. The fees may include prepaid interest, underwriting fees, deed filings, credit report fees, loan processing fees and other fees related to the close of escrow. Remember that these fees are separate from the principal amount of your mortgage. If you cannot afford the fees when escrow closes, some lenders allow you to roll the closing costs into the principal amount of your loan.

Earnest Money Deposit
This term represents a partial payment that you make to the seller demonstrating your commitment to buy the home. Most earnest money deposits are made at the time you make an offer to purchase. Keep in mind that the seller normally keeps the deposit if there is a breach of contract before closing.

Home Purchase Agreement
This agreement outlines the terms of the home purchase, including the sales price and any other conditions agreed to by you and the seller. The agreement is a contractually binding document, and it includes language allowing either you or the seller to back out of the sale. Before you sign a purchase agreement as a buyer, keep in mind it protects the buyer's interests more than it does your interests.

Annual Percentage Rate
Also known as an APR, this interest rate confuses

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