This real estate glossary defines the terms you will encounter when buying or selling a home in Ventura County, from escrow and contingencies to California-specific disclosures and financing. Each entry is written in plain English by Brian Cooper, REALTOR®.
Buying & Escrow
- Escrow
- Contingency
- Earnest Money Deposit
- Contingency Removal
- Appraisal Contingency
- Loan Contingency
- Inspection Contingency
- Contingent vs. Pending
Financing
- FHA Loan
- VA Loan
- Jumbo Loan
- Conforming Loan Limit
- PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance)
- Impound Account
- Mortgage Rate Lock
- Closing Disclosure
- Loan Estimate
- TRID
- 1031 Exchange
Legal & Distressed
- ATROs
- IAEA
- Notice of Default (NOD)
- REO (Real Estate Owned)
- Short Sale
- Probate
- Trust Sale
- Step-Up in Basis
- Moore/Marsden Calculation
- Watts Credit
- Epstein Credit
- Title Insurance
- Preliminary Title Report
- Grant Deed
- Quitclaim Deed
- Deed of Trust
California-Specific
- NHD Report (Natural Hazard Disclosure)
- TDS (Transfer Disclosure Statement)
- SPQ (Seller Property Questionnaire)
- Mello-Roos
- Proposition 13
- Proposition 19
Property & HOA
- HOA (Homeowners Association)
- CC&Rs
- Cap Rate (Capitalization Rate)
- Gross Rent Multiplier (GRM)
- DOM (Days on Market)
- List-to-Sale Ratio
- Comparable Sales (Comps)
- CMA (Comparative Market Analysis)
Mortgage Math & Payments
- Amortization
- Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)
- PITI
- Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)
- Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)
- Discount Points
- Rate Buydown
- Seller Concession
- Lender Credit
- Prepayment Penalty
Refinancing & Equity
Specialty Loans
Distress & Default
- Forbearance
- Loan Modification
- Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure
- Trustee Sale
- Redemption Period
- Lis Pendens
Title, Deeds & Ownership
- Joint Tenancy
- Tenancy in Common
- Community Property
- Right of Survivorship
- Transfer-on-Death Deed
- Owner's Title Policy
- Reconveyance
- Homestead Exemption
Land Use & Zoning
- Easement
- Encroachment
- Setback
- Zoning Variance
- Conditional Use Permit (CUP)
- Accessory Structure
- Lot Line Adjustment
- Assessor Parcel Number (APN)
- Parcel Map
California Taxes & Closing
Transactions & Agency
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a real estate glossary?
A real estate glossary is a reference that defines the terminology used in buying, selling, and financing homes, so you can understand contracts, disclosures, and your agent's advice with confidence.
Why do California real estate terms matter?
California has specific disclosures and laws, such as the TDS, NHD report, Proposition 13, and Proposition 19, that affect your transaction. Knowing these terms helps you make informed decisions.
Are these definitions legal or financial advice?
No. These are general, plain-English definitions for education. For legal, tax, or financial questions specific to your situation, consult a licensed professional. Brian can connect you with trusted experts.
How do I use this glossary?
Browse the grouped list and click any term to read a short definition, why it matters in Ventura County, and answers to common questions. Reach out to Brian if you want help applying a concept to your situation.
