DiscoverAbout

Making the decision to homeschool is usually very difficult and not one to be taken lightly. It is a personal decision that I can't make for you, but maybe I can help you think it through. Consider these things:

Belly button rings, tongue rings, belly rings, navel rings, nose rings, body jewelry, temporary tattos, and more.

Provide the largest selection of novelty and conversational neckwear coupled with unparalleled customer service and Low Prices.

MyTights.com offers a wide range of top quality hosiery - pantyhose, stockings, tights, and more with styles, shapes, and sizes to fit any occasion, outfit, or figure.

The top name designer labels you love and all the latest fashions at a savings of up to 85% off. Famous makers like Calvin Klein, DKNY, Polo, Ecko Red, Perry Ellis and more.

AOP feels that educating each child is an exciting journey for the whole family. Our role is to help parents, Christian schools and bookstores meet this need along the way. AOP has the experience, tools, and advice needed to make each child's homeschool or Christian school experience a success.

Consumer Direct is a consumer electronics company with the experience you need to ensure your satisfaction. Our warehouse is filled with Brand New products from quality manufacturers such as Toshiba, Hitachi, Aiwa, Sharp, Samsung, Panasonic, Panamax, Acoustic Research, JVC, JBL, Cerwin Vega, Advent, Sound Dynamics, and more.

Gear for your dog including life jackets, backpacks, boots, bowls, leashes, collars, harnesses, hunting gear, ramps, toys, and more.

Largest retail source for Hawaiian and Island Lifestyle products including men's, women's and children's clothing, gifts, books and media on island living, wedding collections, and more.

Money gives people -- both young and old -- decision-making opportunities. Educating, motivating, and empowering children to become regular savers and investors will enable them to keep more of the money they earn and do more with the money they spend. Everyday spending decisions can have a far more negative impact on children's financial futures than any investment decisions they may ever make. Here are 15 simple ways to help educate children about personal finance and managing money:

Computer Components, Performance Products, Workplace Accessories and Testing Equipment.

uBid offers brand-name merchandise at deep discounts, most auctions start at $1 and come with warranties. uBid's mission is to consistently deliver exceptional value and service to its customers and supplier partners.

Helping you shop smarter by offering top-quality, name-brand merchandise at 40-80% off. A great selection of your favorite brands, all backed by the warranties and service you'd expect.

US based. Five furniture companies present quality and affordable options for all your furniture needs; including business, home office, school, church, and home.

Over 1,250 essential letters, contracts, board resolutions, plans, checklists, policies and spreadsheets, Business-in-a-Box is the most comprehensive library of business document templates available today.

Take advantage of the buying power of America's largest direct marketer of office furniture. Choose from over 10,000 items with the assurance that any purchase is guaranteed for 15 years.

Providing premium quality printing for everyone in a convenient and affordable manner. A valuable resource for small and medium sized businesses around the world.

One of the largest incorporating service companies in the US, American Incorporators provides a range of services to businesses wishing to incorporate in any of the 50 states

Easy, low cost incorporations. Click Here.

Strive to be America's leading source of travel supplies by providing a superior selection of products, to make travel more comfortable, safe, and rewarding, and by providing the best possible customer experience.

Supplies products, tips and resources for the business traveler; including flight schedules, currency counters, upgrades, products and more. Stands behind their products 100 percent.

Your pet’s exact medications delivered to your door at the Guaranteed Lowest Prices! Delivering prescription and non-prescription pet medications along with health and nutritional supplements for dogs and cats at substantial savings.

A one stop, full service medical supply company specializing in Manual Wheelchairs, Electric Wheelchairs, Electric Scooters, Lift Chairs, Walkers, Rollators, Canes and Bath Aids.

New and used golf equipment and memorabilia. Buy, sell or swap equipmnent, ideas and supplies.

A premier global network of fine wine merchants and gift and gourmet suppliers. Offer the fastest and most cost-efficient global delivery of wine and champagne gifts available today.

Offering wireless solutions to business and consumer clients across the United States through T-Mobile, AT&T Wireless, Nextel Communications, Cingular Wireless, SunCom, and ALLTEL.

Fine gourmet foods, delectable confections, great gift ideas, friendly and efficient customer service as well as convenient Internet access via a user friendly website.

Complete meals that includes an entrée, vegetable and rice or potato whose flavors complement one another. Plus the convenience of having these delicious, easy-to-fix meals delivered right to your door.

Alibris connects people who love books, music and movies to thousands of independent sellers around the world. They offer over 40 million used, new and out-of-print books to consumers, libraries and retailers.

Relationships with some of the largest and finest jewelry manufacturers in the world, Alle ships quickly and directly to its customers the highest quality fine jewelry available.

Clothing, accessories, sizes, tips and entertainment news just for teens.

Offers consumer, small business, business capital services, credit, miles and program information.

Simplify your shopping by providing a carefully-edited selection of high-quality clothing for maternity, baby and kids, plus the best toys, gear, nursery décor and an easy-to-use baby registry. Great values without sacrificing quality or style.

Bare Necessities is the leading retailer of women’s brand name intimate apparel and men’s underwear. Find over 2,000 styles of bras, panties, sleepwear, hosiery, men’s underwear and more.

Find blinds, coverings, shades, and treatments at Blinds.com, by Hunter Douglas, Bali, Graber, Levolor, Prestige, and its own generic brand to save you even more money. Choose also from our interior shutters, plantation shutters, cellular shades, vertical blinds, and shades.

Quality flower arrangements for every occassion and budget. Creating smiles across America.

The latest snowboards, snowboard boots, and snowboard bindings, as well as snowboard pants, jackets, and goggles. Real-time inventory. Most orders ship within 24 hours.

A large and rapidly growing roaming system with over 12,000 Hot Spot locations under contract around the world. Customers can connect in thousands of airports, hotels, convention centers, cafes and other public locations for one low monthly fee.

BriteSmile is a one hour professional teeth whitening treatment that is fast, simple, remarkably effective and completely harmless to enamel, composites, and all dental work.

Whether you're looking for the latest electronics or the newest flicks on DVD, the most jam-up technology or the hippest grooves on CD or download, Buy.com, has what you want at prices you can afford.

Award-winning speakers direct from the factory, eliminating distribution costs and passing the savings directly to you, the customer. Great speakers at great prices.

With 30 locations, online catalog and more than 20 million catalogs, sale flyers and other mail pieces distributed annually, CampingWorld is the world's largest retailer of RV accessories, supplies and services.

Over 100 varieties of chef created gourmet hors d' oeuvres that have been served at New York's finest restaurants, hotels, caterers and country clubs. Freshness Guaranteed (made fresh, frozen and shipped overnight). USDA inspected daily and approved.

Join and pay a monthly membership fee to borrow original bags from your favorite designers! Carry your bag as long as you want, a week, a month, or a year! No late fees ever! Then return your bag and borrow the next one!

Boden and Mini Boden are registered in England & Wales. They are fundamentally a Mail Order Company and source from all over the world - Great Britain, Europe, Far East, with most fabrics coming from Europe.

The leading multi-brand online car buying service, providing new and pre-owned automobiles and related products and services. Offers no-haggle, upfront new car pricing to consumers, who can research, price, order, purchase, insure and finance a vehicle online for nearly every make, model and style of automobile available in the United States.

When you’re in need of emergency funds, between paychecks or just want some extra cash, CashAdvance.net can solve your cash crisis with a cash advance payday loan today!

Offering classic career and casual clothing for plus-size women at moderate prices. Recognizing the fashion needs of women who wear sizes 16W to 26W and 28W to 34W, a size range not readily offered as well as petite lengths in sizes 16WP to 26WP.

Offers cell phone accessories (covers, cases, activation plans, keypads, batteries, chargers, headsets, antennas, and more) to the public. Holds a commitment to customer satisfaction and the delivery of an educational and inspiring shopping experience.

Worldwide hotel company. Brands include: AmeriHost Inn, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, Knights Inn, Ramada, Super8Motel, Travelodge, and Wingate Inn.

Change one meal at a time, one week at a time and never stop eating what you love. Find dozens of mouthwatering recipes, and hundreds of quick tips to shave time and calories.

Provides customers with a unique and diverse line of personalized name and address labels, personalized stationery products, and distinctive merchandise at great prices.

Online cookie store offering a selection of delicious fresh-baked cookies, brownies, ruggallach, frozen dough, gift baskets and more!

Style and fashion for teens including clothes, accessories, roomwares, swimware, and more.

Sumptuous collection of diamonds, tanzanite, emeralds, fine jewelry and brand name timepieces, each showcased in sophisticated and tasteful packaging. Offer high-quality products and services at a sensible cost.

The nation's leading digital multi-channel television service provider. Offer access to 100s of channels of quality programming. DIRECTV also provides television entertainment to tens of thousands of commercial locations, including airports, hotels, restaurants, bars, hospitals and office buildings.

The central address for inspired women's fashion that dresses you beautifully for life's every occasion.

Our main goal is to provide parts and accessories to automotive enthusiasts - regardless of what car they own. Our broad line of parts and accessories for your car, your garage, and your lifestyle fit in perfectly with your hobby and enthusiasm for fine automobiles.

For nearly a century, Dutch Gardens has been supplying Holland's finest bulbs and plants to beautify gardens throughout the U.S. Our history in Holland, however, goes back many more generations.

Shop air, car and hotel deals, packages, and special deals. Quality travel at discount prices.

Neighborhood and airport rental cars throughout the US, UK and Canada as well as fleet services and car sales. Great cars, low rates, free pick-up.

Thousands of popular toys and video games, entire departments dedicated to learning toys and baby items and a unique selection of hard-to-find specialty toys. Shop by age or browse by category, character or brand to find the perfect gift. We delivery directly to your home, or to loved ones across the country. We can even wrap your gifts for you.

Fresh. Stylish. Affordable. From the newest trends to fashion basics, Fashion Bug offers better style, better selection and better value for plus, misses, maternity, juniors and girls.

Our main goal is to bring manufacturer direct floor covering to your door, at the guaranteed lowest prices in the world. We represent some of the largest and most well-respected manufacturers in the world. Supplies include rugs, bamboo, tile, cork, hardwood, laminate, vinyl and more.

Gift-giving convenience combined with the quality. The best of the Heartland, delicious dairy cheeses, fabulous smokehouse meats. Specialize in exquisite holiday fare, bakery, chocolates, nuts, sweets and snacks. Offer special gift assortments, collectible treasures, exclusive and personalized items.

For every occasion, we have over 15,000 products from the leading Top Brand Names: wedding, baby, party, corporate, gifts, and more.

An FTD company. FTD is the largest floral company in the world. The leader in quality, artistry and dependability, FTD connects approximately 20,000 North American retail florists and supports an international floral delivery network of 50,000 affiliated FTD Florists in 154 countries.

Every shoe is a remarkable combination of style, comfort and quality workmanship.

FONcentral.com is an authorized dealer of T-Mobile, AT & T Wireless, Cingular Wireless, Alltel and Suncom Wireless. We maintain our own fulfillment warehouse, and ship directly to you.

Your one-stop solution for finding your new Ford, Lincoln or Mercury. You build and price your new Ford vehicle - all using secure, fast, and easy-to-use internet technology.

Created to provide the public with access to the largest inventory of genuine, brand name fragrances, skincare, candles, aromatherapy and more at the lowest possible prices.

Find everything from the common to the unique collectible including cars, dolls, jewelry, swords, knives, models, and more.

Offers a complete selection of personal and corporate floral and gift items appropriate for any occasion and every sentiment. This includes fresh flowers, plants, balloons and gift baskets.

Offer a complete line of high-performance and reliable mobile computers and server products that are designed and manufactured to to keep you up and running. Offer a range of support plans that allow customers to choose the plan that best meets their business and financial needs.

Gamerang launched its game rental service in 2003 with the goal of using the Internet to make it easier for people to find and rent the console games they want to play. Members can rent as many games as they want and keep them as long as they want, with one game checked out at a time.

We provide garden-tested, earth-friendly products that will help our customers have more fun and success in their gardens. We have designed and introduced dozens of innovative, exclusive products, including self-watering planters, flower supports, composters, grow lights, professional growing mediums, organic fertilizers and more.

GigaGolf's commitment is to offer the latest in golf technology at affordable prices. We do this by manufacturing golf equipment with only the best names in component heads, shafts and grips but without hiring professionals to play our equipment.

We carry a complete selection of golf balls, caps, shoes, bags, clubs and more. Additionally, we sell custom imprinted corporate logo balls, embroidered caps and shirts, as well as monogrammed golf towels.

Choose your location and sign-up for your tee time at your convenience and at a great price.

Combination of aerobics and weight training that helps people burn fat, build muscle and get the bodies they wanted safely, effectively and quickly. This revolutionary aerobics-plus-weight-training fitness hybrid formed the basis for The FIRM method then and is still central to The FIRM philosophy today.

Save up to 85% on calls to over 175 countries on your mobile phone. No restrictions or the high international rates. Don't even have to change your current mobile service provider.

Advanced systems including toll–free numbers with custom recorded greetings, call screening and routing, group messaging, music–on–hold, message notification, fax receipt and teleconference bridge capability, web conferencing, and inbox that manages your voicemail, email, and fax communications.

Have a unique toll free or local number, voicemail, multiple mailboxes, custom greetings, music-on-hold, live call forwarding, and other professional virtual office features. Create the impression of a single office by assigning private extensions to employees regardless of location. Get notified of messages via phone or email. Run your virtual office with our unique & feature-rich 800 or local numbers.

The world's largest tax services company, H&R Block has one-to-one relationships with millions of clients, helping them benefit from all of the deductions and credits available and build a better financial future.

A special combination of rich soil, ample water supply, and moderate temperature, combined with our modern grove management, are contributing factors that make our oranges and grapefruit the juiciest and best tasting available.

Buy & sell used textbooks and new books to avoid costly buyback policies at your campus bookstores, and to save time and money.

When you care enough to send the very best with flowers, gifts, cards and stationery, e-cards, and keepsake ornaments from Hallmark.

Leading developer since 1987. Provides more than 800 high-quality, business-oriented telephony solutions including Hello Direct and GN Netcom-brand products as well as those from leading manufacturers such as Polycom, AT&T, Nortel, Panasonic, Siemens, Motorola, and more.

Offers vacation rental accommodations perfect for a couple, a family, or a group of friends. Our property selection ranges from condominiums to single-family homes throughout the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, and Mexico.

We are a plus size on line women's apparel site. Our target market is women between the ages of 18 to 35. Our clothes are hip, cool, sexy and moderately priced. We aim to enhance and not inhibit the way plus size women dress.

We provide affordable web hosting solutions with reliability, stability, and customer service. We maintain our own servers and purchase bandwidth from Tier 1 bandwidth providers, Peer1.net and He.net.

A leading provider of affordable web hosting since 1998, the HostSave team's unmatched expertise enables us to provide the most reliable, robust and stable hosting for our customers' websites.

Post your individual or group hotel booking requirements. Hotels in your destination(s) of choice get notified of your posting and begin placing bids. You are notified via email each time a new bid comes in for your hotel visit. Enjoy purely competitive rates directly from thousands of great hotels without ever having to pick up the phone.

ICE.com is committed to providing our customers the best value, quality, service and selection of jewelry in the world. Beautiful jewelry at incredible savings!

Comprehensive credit monitoring and identity theft protection. The first to provide you with three-bureau monitoring, the most effective way to help combat identity theft.

A unique online source for gourmet gifts, imported cheeses and specialty foods. Offers premium gourmet gift baskets, as well as other beautiful gourmet food gifts. Culinary treasures at surprisingly affordable prices.

Immutol capsules contain only highly purified Norwegian Beta Glucan, carefully extracted from the cell walls of baker's yeast.

International Jock offers men's sports apparel, underwear and swimwear - jockstraps, athletic supporters and support briefs, hard & soft cups with jockstrap, compression shorts, thongs & men's underwear.

Provide automotive, commercial, marine/RV, motorcycle, lawn and garden or specialty batteries most anywhere in the US, as well as in Canada and select international locations.

A wide variety of data storage solutions. Find the right product to help you share, manage, secure, backup and protect all of your critical data.

J&R offers DVD, MP3 players, cell phones, HDTVs, PDAs, digital cameras, games, and tens of thousands of other products.

Jordan Marie is everything a baby boutique should be: whimsical, adorable, and unique! It is for those who have grown tired of dressing their baby in mass-merchandise clothing: expect our clothing to wash better, look better, and feel better than mass produced clothing.

Brand-name intimates, fashions & more in sizes X-4X, 14W-32W: Just My Size, Hanes, Playtex, Bali, & more!

Prepare for a standardized test. Get into a top school. Succeed in your career.

Nononsense.com offers sheer hosiery and support pantyhose in the styles and colors you want for any occasion. Petite and Woman sizes are available in the widest selection online. Socks, trouser socks and tights are available for your business or casual needs.

Our online superstore, KBtoys.com, offers great values on thousands of the hottest toys and must-have video games. You'll also find an incredible selection of learning toys, collectible toys and baby items.

KegWorks is your home for bar accessories, kegerators, draft beer refrigeration, bar stools, bar foot rails, bar supplies and a full selection of wine accessories. You can also find a full selection of beverage centers, wine refrigerators and compact refrigeration.

Brand name golf balls and clubs at discount prices.

Destination web site for landscaping, irrigation, and gardening. Combining e-commerce, content, and community, the web site provides something for every gardener, from serious do-it-yourself landscapers, to the novice.

Lavalife offers singles anytime, anywhere connections that make single life a positive, fulfilling and self-esteem building experience through relationship opportunities, social interaction and a like minded community of ideas and information.

Designed by hunters for America's hunters and their families. You'll find our apparel, gifts and gear are of the highest quality... our clothing is built to look great, fit right and wear well.

We offer a vast selection of lighting products. Our mission is to eliminate the hassles and offer you the largest selection of product, quick delivery, and expert assistance.

If you've got a high-speed Internet connection, Lingo is a service you can use to make calls over the Internet at significant savings over analog calling.

Luggage Online offers the largest brand and merchandise selections available to both online and in-store shoppers.

At Magazineline you'll find over 600 popular magazines - old favorites such as Newsweek, TV Guide, BusinessWeek, Cosmopolitan and the Wall Street Journal; plus newer, edgier titles like Maxim, Vibe, Marie Claire, Fast Company, and Wired.

Consistently offered our subscribers the very best in selection, price, and service. We were recently ranked by comScore as one of the Top 100 U.S. Internet Properties. Also, Magazines.com was featured on the TODAY show as one of the top gift-giving sites.

A dynamic online marketplace for printing supplies, as well a site for our users to recycle and sell thier used cartrdiges, again and again.

We specialize in custom name tapes, name tags, BDU's and DCU's, flightsuits, combat boots, jungle boots, jump boots, tanker boots, cargo pants, cargo shorts, duffle bags, navy peacoats, military style t-shirts and much, much more. (In fact, over 3,000 products and counting!)

Leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of maternity home and business fashion in the U.S.

Products, clothing and accessories for motorcycle enthusists including street gear, ATV gear, casual wear and parts.

Classic Diecast Cars, Diecast Models and Model Kits that you can't find anywhere else. Especially Classic Cars from 1903 to 1950 - Antique Cars and real diecast collector's treasures.

Offer over 125,000 products. The depth of product information is unequaled including guitars, amps keyboards, percussion, recording, software, lighting, strings, sheet music, accessories, and more.

The Popcorn Factory specializes in fresh popped popcorn in exclusively designed tins. Only the highest quality ingredients are always used, including 100% corn oil, real butter, genuine cheddar cheese and a special private recipe of caramel corn.

Teddy bears perfect for holidays, birthday gifts, new babies, get well, new job, congratulations, I'm Sorry, and countless other occasions.

Supplies for the biking enthusiast including clothing, shoes, frames, helmets, locks, tires, racks, rides and more.

Offering new and innovative communication solutions to retail customers and cable operators worldwide including calling cards, cable telephony, internet cafes, voip services, and more.

Largest collection of premium seating and tickets to the most sought after events. Due to the size of our inventory we are able to offer customers premium tickets at competitive prices. Concert tickets, Sports tickets, theater tickets, we have all of your ticket needs

Leading supplier of mobile phones and mobile, fixed broadband and IP networks.

Fine Southwestern fashions, moccasins, and Native American crafts and jewelry.

Omaha Steaks manufactures, markets and distributes a wide variety of premium steaks, red meats and other gourmet foods. These products are custom cut and packaged to serve the needs of our various markets.

Intimates including on bras, pantyhose, lingerie, panties, underwear, socks, stockings, clothing, athletic apparel, sportswear, plus size apparel, and more from Hanes, L'eggs, Bali, Playtex and Hanes.

Over 25 products to use in your home that are, all made with the same promise of powerful cleaning solutions that are safe for your whole family.

Unique and exciting assortments of special occasion, collectible and seasonal giftware.

Paul Fredrick MenStyle designs and sells an updated classic collection of men’s fashion apparel to hundreds of thousands of men, across the United States and around the world including dress shirts, tailored clothing, sportswear and accessories.

Accessories and products for biking including bicycles, frames, helmets, tools, pumps, nutrition, clothing and more.

Over 3000 gifts, expertly personalized, delivered fast. All items are custom-made, especially for you, using the latest in computer technology.

Online pet supply, products and accessories. A complete selection of pet-related products and pet services, including grooming, obedience training, vaccination clinics, and photography at competitive prices.

Pet supplies for healthier, happier pets. The nation's leading retail supplier of products, services and solutions for the lifetime needs of pets.

Premium meats including filets, ribeye, sirloins, specialty, seafood, and more. Gourmet desserts including truffles, cheesecake, cookies, and more.

A national catalog, retail, and internet company with specific product categories including hearth and fireplace accessories, indoor furniture and furnishings, functional clothing and footwear, outdoor furniture, lawn and garden tools and products, and bird and nature-related products.

Canada’s leading lifestyle brand, selling a wide range of clothing, leather goods and accessories for men and women of all ages including shoes, underwear, fashion accessories, fragrances, watches, luggage, linens, home furnishings and more.

A catalog of toys and products for infants and toddlers that stimulate their senses while promoting interaction between parent and child.

A retail beauty chain in Europe and the US. 250 classic and emerging brands across a broad range of product categories including skincare, color, fragrance, makeup, bath & body, and haircare, in addition to Sephora's own private label.

Deisged to help you get film-quality prints from your digital camera delivered right to your door. You can enhance pictures as needed by reducing red eye, cropping images, add messages on the back, enhance the color, change to black and white, add borders, and more.

Outdoor Clothing and Equipment including men's and women's clothing, shoes, boots, outdoor gear, and more.

Shop from hundreds of furnishings, decorations and accessories for your house and garden.

Stock best-sellers and classics, at a low cost per rental. We deliver right to your mailbox, with no shipping charges, and no late fees. 3000+ unique titles and 1100+ unabridged titles.

Built on the revolutionary philosophies of excellence in the workplace, customer service and always having the lowest prices. Offer products such as electronics, movies, music, books, toys, jewelry, sporting goods, garden items, pharmacy items, apparel, and more.

A fast-growing travel auction marketplace where you can buy airline tickets, room nights, tours, cruises and all-inclusive vacations. Only pay what you think the vacation is worth and not a penny more.

A mecca for people who want unique natural products for their bodies including bath and body, natural health and unique gift products.

Affordable home automation and remote control products including x10 lighting, security cameras, home entertainment, phones, temperature controls, computer interfaces, pet care, accessories, gadgets, and more.

Brand names shoes including Steve Madden, Nina, Skechers, Elle, Madeline, New Balance, Bcbgirls, and more. Numerous styles including dress, boots, evening, flats, casual, and more.

Representing the finest resort and destination spas in the world and includes between stay spas, days spas, medical spa programs, gift certificates, and more.

Stacy Adams is more than shoes. From head to toe: We comver your style from hip-hop to silky soul.

A vast array of products ranging from core items such as caps and jerseys to autographed memorabilia and collectibles. Includes leagues from all levels and all areas of the world.

Horse tack and supplies for english, western, stable, animal health and more.

Shoes and accessories including boots, casual, dress, sneakers, sandels, belts, and bags in classics and new fashion trends.

A trading platform where practically anyone can trade practically anything. People come to buy and sell items in thousands of categories. They can purchase items in an auction-style format or at a fixed price.

Provides consumers access to its exclusive collection of unpublished airfares, as well as regularly published fares on hundreds of airlines. In addition to air, CheapTickets' family of discounted travel products also includes hotel accommodations, cruises, rental cars, vacation packages, condo rentals, and Last Minute Trips.

Name a Star, that's right, an actual star! Gift package includes a 12" x 16" parchment certificate, available framed or unframed, with the name of your choice, dedication date, and telescopic coordinates of the star.

Lillian Vernon Corporation is a leading 53 year-old national catalog and online retailer that markets gift, housewares, gardening, seasonal, and children's products.

Specialty foods including condiments, confections, pantry, toppings, dressings, hors d'oeuvres, more. Kitchen items including bowls, tableware, cook's tools, storage, cookware, and more. Home and garden items including furniture, linens, cleaning, gardening and more.

STOPzilla automatically suppresses all types of Adware and Spyware applications including: Messenger Service Ads, Malicious BHOs, Keystroke Loggers, Backdoor Trojans, Browser Hi-Jackers, Web Dialers and more without ever interrupting your surfing in any way.

Bicycles from Specialized, Giant, Ironhorse, Intense, Kestrel, Felt, Merlin, Cervelo, Rocky Mountain, K2, De Rosa and others. Cycling gear from cycling's best brands - Fox Sports, Pearl Izumi, Castelli, Nema, SIDI, GIRO, Oakley and many others.

Beautiful, super-easy, affordable ready- made furniture slipcovers and accessories. Hundreds of upholstery quality styles, patterns and colors.

Features products by Victorinox and Wenger, the world famous suppliers of knives to the Swiss Army, including watches, knives, tools, travel gear, outdoor gear, swisscards, sunglasses, and more.

An Office Depot Company offering technology supplies such as electronics, cameras, memory, servers, computers, monitors, PDAs, and more.

Buy and Sell New and Used College Textbooks, Reference Titles, and General Books.

A unique and exclusive selection of "small grower" wines from around the world; wines that are sourced at their site of production and shipped by us directly to your home or office.

Everything your baby needs from strollers, car seats, food, diapers, playpens, toys, bedding, monitors, bottles, mobiles, and more.

Reserve a Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep automobile rental from Thrifty for your next business, corporate or leisure travel need.

Purchase tickets for sporting events, music concerts, comedy shoes, theater, broadway shows, Las Vegas shows, and more.

Complete music collections including country, rock and pop, R&B, soul, jazz, blues, worship, gospel, holiday, and more. Extensive TV and mini-series releases, children's programs, As Seen on TV offers, and more.

Tools for every occasion: power, cordless, hand, air, automotive, welding, outdoor and more from brands like Makita, Dewalt, Porter Cable, Stanley Bostitch, Skil, and more.

Sunglasses, eyeglasses, and eyeframes from collections such as Christian Dior, Dolce and Gabbana, Fendi, Gucci, Montblanc, Prada, Ray Ban, Trussardi, Versace, and more.

Providing comprehensive searches including background searches, people locate, criminal records, real estate reports, business users, and more.

Self-service direct marketing. Build your email lists, publish your newsletters and manage your email marketing campaigns, right from your browser. Build and send postcard marketing campaigns for your business with the click of a mouse!

Discount contact lenses and cleaning supplies including brands like Acuvue, Acuvue2, Freshlook, Focus, Dailies, Lensmart, Bausch & Lomb, Johnson & Johnson, and more.

Save up to 75% on brand name vitamins for antioxidants, blood pressure, bone formulas, brain and memory formulas, diabetic formulas, weight loss, digestions, heart formulas, pain, PMS, joint, thyroid, and more.

Providing band instruments including woodwinds, brass, drums & percussion, concert percussion, marching band, strings, classroom, guitars, amplifiers, keyboards, recording, software, live sound, dj gear, lighting, accessories, and more.

Great products including nicotine patches, anti-aging cream, (Compare to Strivectin), Arctic White Teeth Whitening System, The Healthy Weight Loss Program, the Male Potency Patch, The Tan Towel, and much more!

Extensive and quality beauty products and supplies at reasonable prices.

Athletic and leisure apparel including sports bras, pants, shorts, t shirts, sweats, jackets, socks, shoes and more.

Commitment to customer value, to our team, to being direct, to operating responsibly. Offers computer hardware, software, accessories, electronics, and more.

Known for high quality skin care products, rapid shipping and friendly customer service. Features articles and newsletters in which Dr. Kunin shares the current developments in skin care technology and research.

The Disney Movie Club features a wide selection of Disney's greatest hits - including preschool, live action and animated movies, recent releases, and hard-to-find classics. Plus we are adding new titles at great prices all the time.

Great products at great prices. More than 18,000 items to choose from (that's over 3 times more than your average drugstore!) with no lines or hassles.

Flowerstore.com provides flowers, gift baskets, food baskets and unique gift ideas for any occasion. The site boasts a distinctive collection of beautifully decorated gifts, ranging from Corporate, Gourmet Delicacies, New Baby, Birthdays to Housewarming, Holidays, Sports and more.

Intimate apparel for every occasion: bras, panties, lingerie, corsets, hosiery, bridal, fantasy, and more.

Provides gift baskets, food baskets, flowers and unique gift ideas for any occasion. The site boasts a distinctive collection of beautifully decorated gifts, ranging from Corporate, Gourmet Delicacies, New Baby, Birthdays to Housewarming, Holidays, Sports and more.

Hotwire's mission is to offer unbeatable low prices on airline tickets, hotel reservations, car rentals, vacation packages and cruises through our partnerships with leading travel companies.

Specializing in women's clothing including tops, bottoms, jackets, active wear, swimwear, outerwear, intimates, accessories, and more.

The leader in tabletop fashion in dinnerware, crystal stemware, barware, flatware and decorative accessories.

Offers one-of-a-kind dolls created to look like the special child in your life. We're best known for our personalized My Twinn Dolls, with stylish apparel and unique accessories designed for dolls, girls and moms.

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Like sending a mini-vacation. She'll receive the softest, most luxurious pajamas, along with a personalized card, lavender bath tea, and a "Do Not Disturb" sign, all wrapped in a beautiful keepsake hatbox.

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Our mission is to be the leading systems, services, and solutions provider in the world by exceeding customers' expectations through superior service delivery, world class talent and applied technological innovation.

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Yahoo! HotJobs' tools and advice put job seekers in control of their careers and make it easier and more cost-effective for employers and staffing firms to find qualified candidates. It provides employers, recruiters, and staffing agencies with progressive recruiting solutions and hiring management software.

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Monster's Post-a-Job service allows companies to reach millions of quality candidates and represents the best hiring solution for small businesses. Job seekers can store their Monster Resume online to apply for jobs. Our newest product, Monster Networking, will give your users the opportunity to search and connect with a network of over one million professionals!

Cert21.com currently offers over 75 online practice exams that support single, multiple, fill-in blank non-case sensitive and case-sensitive fill-in blanks types of questions. Exams include MCSE, Oracle, Solaris, A+, Network+, CIW, CCNA, CCNP, and more.

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Offering customers a complete selection of styles from each brand (in every size, width, and color), including adidas, New Balance, Rockport, Converse, Kenneth Cole, Donald J. Pliner, Ecco, Timberland, Clarks, Skechers, and more.

European designer clothes for kids. Our highly rated site has novel quick-search facility, clear and detailed product information, gift wrap options and same day despatch world-wide. We have full customer services and money-back warrenty. Customers can buy in US Dollars, Sterling or Euros.

CWDKids carries your favorite brands of boys and girls children's clothing: Mulberribush, Flapdoodles, Sweet Potatoes, Hartstring, Sara's Prints, and more.

Featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, eyeglasses.com carries over 110 top designer brands of eyeglasses, sunglasses, and prescription lenses. Upload your own photo and use our e Try It On(sm) software to virtually "try on" any of our eyewear on your own face.

A boutique for women's & women's petite sizes 14-24. Featuring Elisabeth, Liz Woman, Ellen Tracy, Sigrid Olsen & Emma James.

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eBags is the online leader for luggage, backpacks, handbags, briefcases, and accessories.

Jostens is a leading provider of school-oriented products, programs and services that help people celebrate important moments, recognize achievements and build affiliations.

Fashion, personal style, and clothing care are mutually important when building and maintaining a wardrobe. This "Top 15" list will change, over time, but will never stray from the basic premise; we spend too much money on our clothing to not know how to take care of it. I hope you can embrace a few of these suggestions and make them work for you.

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Frequently asked questions on bankruptcy and how it can affect your credit and home buying power.

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LowerMyBills is a comprehensive service that helps consumers lower all their monthly bills, all in one spot. We offer a broad range of savings opportunities, with a special focus on home loans.

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Frequently asked questions on property appreciation and tips for what you can do to increase the value of your home.

This measuring system should be used for ordering all custom made clothing from Suit Yourself.

A technology and data reporting company with a primary focus on the valuation of residential property. Provides property valuations for both consumers and institutional clients. Electronic Appraiser produces an accurate computer generated analysis on any selected property nationwide.

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There’s nothing quite like the feeling of donning your favorite “special occasion” gown and twirling around in front of a mirror. That’s true whether you’re a forty-something woman attending a formal reception, a teenager preparing for her prom, or a tiny flower girl getting ready to walk down the aisle. But whatever the age of the wearer, these dresses demand special respect. After all, there’s a reason why velvet, chiffon, organza and taffeta aren’t “everyday” fabrics!

Trend clothes for young, fashionable women. Women Casual: Sporty-fashionable styles with high level of comfort. Women Collection: high quality feminine elegance in business.

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Before you go shopping, make sure to look good and feel good so the clothing looks good on you. To make the most of your shopping experience, have a plan...

You probably don't give handbags the same scrutiny you give a pair of jeans: if a handbag is cute or fits your lifestyle then it works. But did you know that a handbag can flatter your shape almost as much as the right pair of jeans?

Math can be extremely boring for students, especially when they don't understand the basic concepts needed to succeed. If your kids do not grasp addition or the use of fractions, more than likely they are not going to be thrilled when they have to learn or use a new math concept.

Writing English essays and history research papers can be complicated and overwhelming. This is why so many students ask their parents to help them with their homework by editing their papers. Unfortunately, the process of editing can be as intimidating as the act of writing a paper! This article serves as a guide for both parents and students looking to strengthen a high school English paper.

It seems as though your child just got a firm grasp on single digit and double digit equations, long division, and percentages when they begin to learn about word problems. They come home with homework and begin to work only to become frustrated after realizing that although word problems look like English; they can't be solved using English.

The majority of children learn how to read by putting letters together that match up with the familiar sounds that they have heard before. Children learn the sounds that the letters make and then learn how letters come together to make words.

Sometimes teacher's personalities just don't mesh well with the students. Do you currently have a teacher who just doesn't understand you? Are you constantly getting in trouble or struggle to get your teacher's attention? If you are not getting along with your teacher and it is making you annoyed, then continue reading this article to gain some tips that can help you deal with your frustrating situation.

Test. The word alone can cause student's palms to sweat, heart to race, and feelings of nervousness and fear to swell throughout their body. If you experience these or other scary feelings when presented with a test, then you are feeling test anxiety. This is a very common feeling and you are not alone. If you have problems completing tests then continue reading to gain some advice that will hopefully ease some of those worrisome feelings and fears.

Home education has become an appealing alternative to classroom instruction in recent years. An estimated 2 million American children are being homeschooled, with that number rising by 15 percent each year. What makes it so attractive for families? Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of homeschooling.

Parental Involvement Is the Answer. Study after study has shown that parental involvement is the number-one determinant of how well all children -- regardless of their background -- do in school. Here are ten ways you can help your kids succeed in the classroom -- and beyond.

Hearing something once is not enough to really learn it, and that is why note taking is so important. Clearly written, accurate notes help to capture information for later study and review. Taking notes also helps you to focus and learn during class time.

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Frequently asked questions on avoiding foreclosure: what is foreclosure, how does foreclosure affect credit, and more.

The number one online Italian fashion store. Designer handbags and silk neckties are available in a wide selection. Gucci, Prada and Fendi are some of the brands we feature, along with Armani, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana.

Born of leading travel innovator Sabre (the world's largest travel agent reservation system), we understand travel. We know how much better traveling can be when someone you trust has your back. That's why we provide honest, straight-talking information, support a 'no hidden costs' policy (disclosing total prices upfront), and offer expert trip-planning assistance 24 hours a day.

Below are some questions to ask your travel advisors, whether a representative of a company helping to plan your trip or a single travel agent, to help ensure that they are professional and knowledgeable and ultimately experienced enough to make sure your trip is unforgettable, in a good way!

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Offering watches sold under the FOSSIL and RELIC brands, as well as complementary lines of small leather goods, belts, handbags, jewelry and sunglasses and FOSSIL brand apparel.

eWatches.com is an authorized dealer of high quality, name brand watches. We guarantee customer satisfaction on every transaction by providing excellent customer service, some of the lowest prices on the internet, and by only offering watches and watch lines of proven quality, backed up by full manufacturers' warranties.

EyeSave.com now offers more than 80 brands of sunglasses at prices up to 70% off retail and has established itself as the leading e-tailer of discount designer and name brand sunglasses.

Universal Gear offers men's clothing, swimwear, underwear and accessories from great brands like Diesel, G-Star, Ben Sherman, Calvin Klein, 2(x)ist, Kenneth Cole and more.

The Internet could be your ticket to happier dating, long-term relationships, and if it's just fun you're after, you'll find many singles who're looking for exactly that.

Expedia, Inc. is the world’s leading online travel service and the fourth largest travel agency in the U.S and delivers the most comprehensive flight options available online. Allows customers to dynamically build complete trips that combine flights, hotels and other lodging, ground transportation, and destination activities.

While a watch’s main function is to tell time, more and more of today’s timepieces offer extra benefits -- some serve as two-way radios, have built-in computers, or even monitor your position on earth using GPS. But while watches as a whole have increased in their utility, some go beyond the trendy bells and whistles and offer something more -- timepieces that are built for life. Better known as luxury watches, here are a few things you will want to know before running off to make the big purchase.

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An easy-to-use web ecommerce solution devoted to making an online commerce store launching easy as surfing the web. Numerous cutting-edge features will make your online commerce a success: inventory management, SEO tools, credit card processing, special offers, discount coupons and many others.

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Our mission is to protect our nations most valuable asset, our children! The Child Safe Network provides parents and guardians with the ability to search these databases of convicted sex offenders.

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Find the Internet’s best selection of fonts for preview, purchase and immediate download. Fonts.com is also the place to find the latest typographic news, tips, and typeface releases.

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Rochester Big and Tall is the premier clothier for big and tall men. We feature brand-name clothing from Polo Ralph Lauren, Versace, Cutter & Buck, Nautica, Axis, DKNY, Levis and more. We always stand behind our quality clothing with first-class customer service.

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The art of making a good first impression on a man has changed considerably with the advent of online dating. Using this medium, it's not necessary to check if there's lipstick on your teeth but rather if there are typos in your profile. And how can you tell if the guy who sounds so great on "paper" is the real thing? Most importantly, once you and a cyber-beau initially -- pardon the pun -- click, how can you gracefully move it offline? Here are the do's and don'ts of email courtship:

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Travel agencies normally have a number of different packages to choose from, each with a different itinerary and range of potential travel dates. However, while travel packages can be a great deal, they can also be disastrous if you don’t know what to look out for. Below are some of the benefits of traveling via a travel package, as well as some things to be aware of.

Some transportation methods are faster while others are less expensive, and which you choose really depends on what you are looking to achieve. Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with some of the most popular forms of travel. Use these to help you figure out which type of travel is right for you!

While, in the past, only the rich and famous could afford to travel around the world, today international travel is a possibility for everyone, even those on a tight budget. Below are some hints for how to save money while traveling without jeopardizing your safety or comfort.

When traveling to another country or to a place with historical landmarks, arranging for tours can be a great way to learn about the area and its significance. However, some tours can be long and tedious, full of boring information and virtually impossible to escape from. Below are some pro’s and con’s associated with tours to help you figure out whether a tour is going to be right for your trip.

When should you go it alone and when should you take a tour? How can you know ahead of time if a tour is going to be worth the added expense? Below are some things to find out before planning your trip to see if traveling through a tour will make the most sense for you.

But what if you could go on a vacation where everything was taken care of for you, where you never had to worry about lugging around heavy cases, making reservations, or racing after tour groups? It is this kind of vacation that exemplifies luxury travel.

The following information is intended to help you select the best type of clothing and equipment for your trip.

The Neckwear Association of America offers the following tips on how to care for your tie. Today’s tie materials like Rayon, Dacron, and polyester, or blends with other natural materials have resulted in ties that are longer lasting, wrinkle-free and easier to care for.

Now's the ideal time to try Internet dating. The stigma is history, the sites are man-packed and your privacy is protected. Here is all the info you need to meet your dream man.

Hooked on Phonics is the #1 trusted name in teaching kids to read. Offering Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read, Hooked on Phonics Master Reader, Hooked on Math and Hooked on School Success, helping kids to succeed in reading comprehension, homework, and test taking.

Template Monster is a world leader in e-commerce - providing customers with valuable, convenient, relevant and enjoyable online experiences through a diversity of products and services. We pioneered in creating and selling high quality website templates. Our library is currently the largest on the Internet, with over 5,000 website template designs. We add, on average, 150-200 new designs monthly.

Abstract of judgment, law The summary of a court judgment that creates a lien against a property when filed with the county recorder.

Accelerated cost recovery system A tax calculation that provides greater depreciation in the early years of ownership of real estate or personal property.

Acceleration clause A provision that gives a lender the right to collect the balance of a loan if a borrower misses a payment.

Accelerated depreciation A bookkeeping method that depreciates property faster in the early years of ownership.

Acceptance The seller's written approval of a buyer's offer.

Access Any means by which a person can enter property.

Accessibility The degree to which a building or site allows access to people with disabilities.

Accretion The gradual addition to the shore or bank of a waterway by deposits of sand or silt.

Acknowledgment A written declaration affirming that a person acted voluntarily.

Acre A measurement of land equal to 43,560 square feet.

Acre foot The volume of material needed to cover an acre of land one foot deep.

Active solar system A system that utilizes electric pumps or fans to transfer solar energy for storage or direct use.

Actual age The number of years a structure has been standing.

Addendum An addition or change to a contract.

Additional principal payment Extra money included in the monthly payment to help reduce the principal and shorten the term of the loan.

Add-on interest The interest a borrower pays on the principal for the duration of the loan.

Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) A loan with an interest rate that is periodically adjusted to reflect changes in a specified financial index.

Adjusted cost basis The cost of any improvements the seller makes to the property. Deducting the cost from the original sales price provides the profit or loss of a home when it is sold.

Adjustment period The amount of time between interest rate adjustments in an adjustable-rate mortgage.

Administrator A person given authority to manage and distribute the estate of someone who died without leaving a will.

Administrator's deed A legal document that an administrator of an estate uses to transfer property.

Adverse possession The acquisition of title to property through possession without the owner's consent for a certain period of time.

Adverse use The access and use of property without the owner's consent.

Aeolian soil Soil that is composed of materials deposited by the wind.

Affiant A person who makes a sworn statement.

Affirmation A substitution for an oath granted to people based on religious reasons.

A-frame design An interior style that features a steeply peaked roofline and a ceiling that is open to the top rafters.

Agency The relationship of trust that exists between sellers and buyers and their agents. The agency is formed through a written contract.

Agency closing The process by which a lender uses a title company or other firm as an agent to complete a loan.

Agent A person licensed by the state to conduct real estate transactions.

Agreed boundary A compromise boundary to which property owners agree in order to resolve a dispute.

Agreement of sale A document the buyer initiates and the seller approves that details the price and terms of the transaction.

Alcove A recessed section of a room, such as a breakfast nook.

Alienation clause A provision that requires the borrower to pay the balance of the loan in a lump sum after the property is sold or transferred.

Alkali Mineral salt found in soil.

Alkaline soil Soil that contains a higher concentration of mineral salt than natural acid.

Alley A lane behind a row of buildings or between two rows of buildings.

Allowances Budgets offered by builders of new homes for the purchase of carpeting and fixtures.

Alternative mortgage Any home loan that does not conform to a standard fixed-rate mortgage.

Aluminum-clad windows Wooden windows with aluminum covering the exterior.

Aluminum siding A metal covering that provides an alternative to paint for owners of wood homes.

Amenities Parks, swimming pools, health-club facilities, party rooms, bike paths, community centers and other enticements offered by builders of planned developments.

American Society of Home Inspectors The American Society of Home Inspectors is a professional association of independent home inspectors. Phone: (800) 743-2744.

Americans with Disabilities Act A law passed in 1990 that outlaws discrimination against a person with a disability in housing, public accommodations, employment, government services, transportation and telecommunications.

Amortization The process of paying the principal and interest on a loan through regularly scheduled installments.

Amortization tables Mathematical tables that lenders use to calculate a borrower's monthly payment.

Amperage The strength of an electrical current.

Anchor bolt A large steel bolt anchored in concrete and attached to a building to prevent the structure from moving.

Annual Any kind of plant that must be planted every year.

Annual mortgagor statement A yearly statement to borrowers that details the remaining principal and amounts paid for taxes and interest.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) The cost of the loan expressed as a yearly rate on the balance of the loan.

Annuity The payment of a fixed sum to an investor at regular intervals.

Anticipatory breach A communication that informs a party that the obligations of the original contract will not be fulfilled.

Application A document that details a potential borrower's income, debt and other obligations to determine credit worthiness.

Application fee The fee that a lender charges to process a loan application.

Appraisal An opinion of the value of a property at a given point in time.

Appraisal fee The fee that an appraiser charges to estimate the market value of the property.

Appraisal report A detailed written report on the value of a property based on recent sales of comparable sites in the area.

Appraised value An opinion of the current market value of a property.

Appreciation An increase in the value of a home or other property..

Arbitration A method of resolving a dispute in which a third party renders a decision.

Arbor An area shaded by trees, shrubs or vines on a latticework structure.

Arch A curved structure that supports weight over an area, such as a doorway.

Architect A licensed professional who designs homes, buildings and other structures.

Architectural fees The fee an architect charges for services. In general, architects charge for their services by the hour, by the square foot, or by a percentage of the project budget.

Arpent A French measurement of land equal to .84625 acres.

Asbestos A fire-resistant mineral used for insulation and home products that has been found to pose a health hazard.

As-is condition The purchase or sale of a property in its existing condition.

Asking price A seller's initial price for a property.

Assessed value A tax assessor's determination of the value of a home in order to calculate a tax base.

Assessment The estimated value of a piece of real estate or a levy placed on property in addition to taxes.

Assessment rolls A list of taxable property compiled by the assessor.

Assets Items of value which include cash, real estate, securities and investments.

Assignor A person who transfers rights and interests of a property.

Assumable mortgage A mortgage that can be transferred to another borrower.

Assumption clause A provision that allows a buyer to take responsibility for the mortgage from a seller.

Assumption fee A fee the lender charges to process new records for a buyer who assumes an existing loan.

Average price The price of a home determined by totaling the sales prices of all houses sold in an area and dividing that number by the number of homes.

Avigation easement An easement over private property near an airport that limits the height of structures and trees.

Awning windows Single-sash windows that tilt outward and up.

OshKosh is an American heartland lifestyle brand. We've been committed to outfitting families with quality goods for over 100 years. That commitment continues as we revitalize our brand on all fronts and create high quality, authentic, and market-right products that stay true to the OshKosh Heritage.

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Launched in response to need for consistent and more immediate access to rapidly changing cruise travel-related information. Customers can book their own travel arrangements 24 hours a day, seven days a week and enjoy reliable, real-time access to relevant ship schedules, pricing and availability information from the world’s finest cruise lines.

11thHour.com is the definitive Web site for last minute travelers looking for a great deal. Travel companies worldwide supply 11thHour with a revolving inventory of over four million vacation and cruise deals, so customers need to act fast and check back often. In addition to bargains for the spontaneous traveler, 11thHour also offers the ability to reserve months in advance.

They say that half the fun of going on a vacation is anticipating and planning it. Preparing your wardrobe and packing for the cruise are part of that fun! The bottom line: Don't get carried away! (Typically, first-time cruisers pack at least twice as many clothes as they need). One or two bathing suits, a couple of shorts and shirts, a few sets of nice casual wear, and a couple of more dressy outfits should work out just fine. Don't overpack! Think in terms of essentials. Save room for the stuff you'll be buying (inevitably) on your trip!

Below are some of the pro’s and con’s of traveling by ship. Remember that the most important aspect of a cruise is the company that is running it. If they have a solid reputation and a good track record then your cruise should be the trip of a lifetime.

Most airline trips are uneventful; however, airlines don't guarantee their schedules, and you should realize this when planning your trip. There are many things that can make it impossible for flights to arrive on time. Some of these problems, such as bad weather and resulting air traffic delays, are beyond the airlines’ control. Others, such as the need for mechanical repairs, are hard to cannot be predicted. Nevertheless, you can take steps to reduce your chances of encountering most problems and limit their effects.

Over two million pets and other live animals are transported by air every year in the United States. Federal and state governments impose restrictions on transporting live animals. In addition, each airline establishes its own company policy for the proper handling of the animals they transport. As a shipper or owner you also have a responsibility to take the necessary precautions to ensure the well being of the animal you ship.

There is a wide variety of air fares available to travelers. This fact sheet will help you choose the one that's best for you.

Relatively few bags are damaged or lost. However, your chances of encountering this experience can be reduced even further if you follow the advice set out below.

This article reviews general and economic information about Mexico to help you form a global impression of the area you are thinking of visiting.

If you are not spending the majority of your life cruising or thinking about cruising, there are likely a number of little things - that perhaps never occurred to you - which can make a major difference in your cruise experience.

Frequently asked questions concerning property taxes: how to property taxes work, are they deductible, how is my home's value determined, and more.

Frequently asked questions concerning homeowner's insurance: what type of insurance should I get, what is guaranteed replacement cost insurance, and more.

Frequently asked when about hiring a contractor: factors to keep in mind, how they can help a remodel, and more.

Back fill Soil used to solidify the foundation of a structure.

Back title letter A letter that a title insurance company gives to an attorney who then examines the title for insurance purposes.

Back-to-back escrow Arrangements that an owner makes to oversee the sale of one property and the purchase of another at the same time.

Backup offer A secondary bid for a property that the seller will accept if the first offer fails.

Backwater valve A valve in a sewer line that prevents sewage from flowing back into a house.

Balance sheet A statement that shows the assets, liabilities and net worth of an individual.

Balloon-frame construction A type of framing used in two-story homes in which studs extend from the ground to the ceiling of the second floor.

Balloon loan A mortgage in which monthly installments are not large enough to repay the loan by the end of the term. As a result, the final payment due is the lump sum of the remaining principal.

Balloon payment The final lump sum payment due at the end of a balloon mortgage.

Balustrade Railing held up by a set of posts on a porch or stairway.

Bankruptcy A proceeding in which an insolvent debtor can obtain relief from payment of certain obligations. Bankruptcies remain on a credit record for seven years and can severely limit a person's ability to borrow.

Bargain sale The sale of a piece of property for less than market value.

Baseboard Any board or molding found at the bottom of an interior wall.

Baseboard electric heat Heating units installed in the floor that can be controlled by a central thermostat.

Basement The area of a home below ground level.

Basis Point A basis point is one one-hundredth of one percentage point. For example, the difference between a loan at 8.25 percent and a mortgage at 8.37 percent is 12 basis points.

Bay The opening between two columns or walls that forms a space.

Bay window A window that projects outward in a curve.

Bearing wall A wall that supports its own weight in addition to other parts of a structure.

Beneficiary The lender who makes a loan, also called a mortgagee. The person borrowing money is the mortgagor.

Before-tax income Total income before taxes are deducted.

Bequest Personal property given to a person through a will.

Betterment An improvement that increases a property's value as opposed to repairs that maintain the value.

Bidding war Offers from multiple buyers for a piece of property. Agents also sometimes compete to list a house for sale.

Bilateral contract A contract in which the parties involved give mutual promises. Also called "reciprocal" contracts.

Bill of sale A document that transfers ownership of personal property.

Binder A report issued by a title insurance company that details the condition of a home's title. and provides guidelines for a title insurance policy.

Biweekly mortgage A mortgage that requires payments every two weeks and helps repay the loan over a shorter term.

Blanket insurance policy A policy that covers more than one person or piece of property.

Blanket mortgage A mortgage that covers more than one property owned by the same borrower.

Blighted area A neighborhood that has deteriorated.

Blind nailing Nails driven into a wall and concealed with putty.

Blueprint

Blue-ribbon condition A house maintained close to its original condition. Also called mint condition.

Blue sky laws Regulations on the sale of securities to prevent consumers from investing in fraudulent or high-risk companies without being informed of the risks.

Board-and-batten siding Siding is composed of 8- to 12-inch wide wooden boards nailed vertically to create a barn-like exterior.

Board foot Measurement of lumber that is the equivalent of 144 cubic inches.

Board of Equalization A state board charged with ensuring that local property taxes are assessed in a uniform manner.

Boilerplate Form language used in deeds, mortgages and other documents. Details can be added by individual parties.

Bona fide A legal term that refers to actions or persons that are honest and in good faith.

Bond An agreement that insures one party against loss by acts or defaults of another party.

Book value The value of a property as a capital asset based on its cost plus any additions, minus depreciation.

Boring test An analysis of soil in which holes are bored into the ground and samples are removed.

Borough A section of a city that has authority over local matters.

Borrow Sand, gravel or other material used for grading.

Borrow pit The hole at a site that has been excavated.

Boulevard A street lined with trees or constructed with a landscaped median.

Boundary The dividing line between two adjacent properties.

Braced framing A construction method in two-story homes in which the frame is reinforced with posts and braces.

Breach of contract The failure to perform provisions of a contract without a legal excuse.

Breach of covenant The failure to obey a legal agreement.

Breach of warranty A seller's inability to pass clear title to a buyer.

Break-even point The point in which the owner's rental income matches expenses and debt.

Breast height The height at which the diameter of a tree is measured: four feet, six inches above the ground.

Breezeway A roofed passageway with open sides.

Brick Building material made from clay molded into oblong blocks and fired in a kiln.

Bridge loan A short-term loan for borrowers who need more time to find permanent financing.

Brokerage The act of bringing together two or more parties in exchange for a fee or commission.

Broker A person licensed by the state to deal in real estate.

Broom clean The ideal condition of a building when it is turned over to an owner or tenant.

Brownstone A vintage row house constructed of red sandstone.

Buffer strip A parcel of land that separates two or more properties.

Building and loan association An organization that raises money to helps its members purchase real estate or construct a building.

Building code A comprehensive set of laws that controls the construction or remodeling of a home or other structure.

Building inspector A city or county employee who enforces the building code and ensures that work is correctly performed.

Building moratorium A halt on home construction to slow the rate of development.

Building paper A thick, water-resistant paper that serves as insulation.

Building permit A permit issued by a local government agency that allows the construction of home or renovation of a house.

Builder upgrades Extra house features or better finishing materials that a builder offers.

Building line or setback Guidelines that limit how close an owner can build to the street or an adjacent property.

Building restrictions Regulations that limit the manner in which property can be used.

Built-ins Appliances or other items that are framed into a home or permanently attached.

Bulkhead A retaining wall designed to hold back water from the ocean or another body of water.

Bundle of rights The various interests or rights an owner has in a property.

Bungalow A small one-story house or cottage.

Butterfly roof A roof formed by two gables that dip in the middle to resemble a butterfly's wings.

Buy-down mortgage A home loan in which the lender receives a premium as an inducement to reduce the interest rate during the early years of the mortgage.

Buyer broker A real estate broker who exclusively represents the buyer's interests in a transaction and whose commission is paid by the buyer rather than the seller.

Buyer's market A slow real estate market in which buyers have the advantage.

Buyer's remorse An emotion felt by first-time homebuyers after signing a sales contract or closing the purchase of a house.

Bylaws The rules and regulations that a homeowners association or corporation adopts to govern activities.

Call option A clause in a loan agreement that allows a lender to ask for the balance at any time.

Can lights Cylindrical chambers with bulbs recessed into the ceiling.

Cancellation clause A clause that details the conditions under which each party may terminate the agreement.

Cantilever A projecting structure supported on one end, such as a balcony.

Cap A limit on the amount the interest rate or monthly payment can increase in an adjustable-rate mortgage.

Cape Cod style A wood-frame or shingled house with a steep roof and several windows projecting from the second floor.

Capital Money used to create income, such as funds invested in rental property.

Capital expenditure The cost of making improvements on a property.

Capital gains Profits an investor makes from the sale of real estate or investments.

Capital gains tax A tax placed on the profits from the sale of real estate or investments.

Capital improvement Any improvement that extends the life or increases the value of a piece of property.

Capitalization A mathematical formula that investors use to compute the value of a property based on net income.

Capitalization rate The percentage rate of return estimated from the net income of a piece of property.

Caravan A group of real estate agents who tour a house that has been recently listed for sale.

Carport A roof that covers a driveway or other parking area.

Casement window A window hinged on its sides to allow it to swing open vertically.

Cash flow The amount of cash a rental property investor receives after deducting operating expenses and loan payments from gross income.

Cashier's check A check the bank draws on itself rather than on a depositor's account.

Cash-out refinance The refinancing of a mortgage in which the money received from the new loan is greater than the amount due on the old loan. The borrower can use the extra funds in any manner.

Cathedral ceiling A high open ceiling formed by finishing exposed roof rafters.

Caulk An acrylic or silicon sealant used to fill cracks, crevices and holes in a home.

Cavedium A courtyard or atrium.

Caveat A formal notice, that asks a court to suspend action until the party which filed the challenge can be heard.

Caveat emptor A legal principle derived from Latin than means "let the buyer beware."

Ceiling height The standard height of a ceiling is eight feet.

Central air conditioning A device that generates cold air through an outside unit that is connected to ductwork inside the house.

Central business district The area of a city where most large businesses are located.

Certificate of Deposit (CD) A document which shows that the bearer has a specified amount of money on deposit with a bank, stock-brokerage firm or other financial institution.

Certificate of deposit index An index based on the interest rates on six-month CDs. It used to determine the interest rate for some adjustable-rate mortgages.

Certificate of eligibility A document issued by the Veterans Administration that verifies the eligibility of a veteran for a loan program.

Certificate of occupancy A document which states that a home or other building has met all building codes and is suitable for habitation.

Certificate of sale A document issued at a judicial sale, which entitles the buyer to receive a deed after court confirmation of the purchase of the property.

Certificate of title A written opinion on the status of a piece of property based on an examination of the public record.

Chain of title The official record that details the ownership history of a piece of property.

Chair railing Decorative trim installed on a wall about 32 inches above the floor, which protects against scuffs from furniture.

Change order A modification of the construction contract to authorize a change in the work, an adjustment in the amount of the contract or a change in the contract time. The owner, architect and contractor must sign the change.

Change frequency The adjustment schedule on an adjustable-rate mortgage.

Chattel Personal property such as furniture, clothing or a car.

Chattel mortgage A lien on personal property used as collateral for a loan.

Chimney back The back wall or lining of a fireplace or furnace chimney.

Chimney flue The passage inside a chimney that channels smoke and heat to the outside.

Chimney pot A short pipe at the top of a chimney that increases ventilation to the fireplace and reduces smoke.

Cinder block A block made of ash and cement that is used in construction.

Cinder fill Cinders used below a basement or around a foundation to promote drainage.

Circuit breaker An electric fuse that activates or deactivates a circuit.

Cistern A tank used to store rainwater.

Classified property tax A tax that varies in rate depending on the use of the property.

Clear title A property that does not have liens, defects or other legal encumbrances.

Closing The final procedure in which documents are signed and recorded, and the property is transferred.

Closing costs Expenses incidental to the sale of real estate, including loan, title and appraisal fees.

Closing statement A document which details the final financial settlement between a buyer and seller and the costs paid by each party.

Cloud on title An invalid encumbrance on real property.

Cluster development A method of squeezing more homes into less space.

Codicil A change to a will that adds or subtracts provisions or clarifies portions of the document.

Co-housing Individual housing units that are clustered around a common building where residents share cooking and other activities.

Coign The cornerstone of a building that differs in shape or color from the rest of the wall.

Co-insurance Coverage that involves the use of two or more insurers..

Collar beam The structural element that connects roof rafters.

Collateral security Additional security that a borrower supplies to obtain a loan.

Collection The series of steps a lender takes to bring a delinquent mortgage up to date.

Collusion The action of two or more people to break the law.

Colonia Unincorporated communities along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Column A slender upright structure that consists of a base, a round or square shaft and a capital.

Column footing The support base for a load-bearing column. The footing is usually made of reinforced concrete.

Co-maker A person who signs a promissory note with the borrower and assumes responsibility for the loan.

Combination door An outer door with interchangeable screen and glass panels.

Combination window A window with interchangeable screen and glass panels.

Commercial bank A financial institution that provides a broad range of services, from checking and savings accounts to business loans and credit cards.

Commercial property An area that is zoned for businesses.

Commingling The mixing of money held in trust with other funds.

Commission The negotiable percentage of the sales price of a home that is paid to the agents of the buyer and seller.

Commitment A promise by a lender to make a loan with specific terms for a specified period.

Commitment fee The fee a lender charges for promising to make a loan.

Common area An area inside a housing development that is owned by all residents.

Common-area assessments Fees paid by the owners of a condominium project or planned-unit development to maintain, repair, improve or operate common areas.

Common-interest development A project composed of individually owned units that share usage and financial responsibility for common areas.

Common law A body of laws based on custom, usage and rulings by courts in various jurisdictions.

Community property Property accumulated through the joint efforts of husband and wife. It is a classification of property peculiar to certain states.

Community Reinvestment Act A federal law that encourages financial institutions to loan money in the neighborhoods where minority depositors live.

Commute The distance and time it takes a person to reach the workplace.

Comparables Properties used as comparisons to determine the value of a certain property.

Comparative market analysis An estimate of the value of a property based on an analysis of sales of properties with similar characteristics.

Competent A term for a buyer who is legally fit to enter into a sales contract.

Compound interest The interest paid on the principal balance in a mortgage and on the accrued and unpaid interest of the loan.

Concrete tilt-up The process of pouring concrete into forms on the ground, allowing the forms to harden and then raising the material to a vertical position to form walls.

Condemnation The process the government uses to take private property for public use without the consent of the owner.

Conditional commitment A promise by a lender to make a loan if the borrower meets certain conditions.

Condominium Individual units in a building or development in which owners hold title to the interior space while common areas such as parking lots, community rooms and recreational areas are owned by all the residents.

Condominium conversion The change in title from a single owner of an entire project or building to multiple owners of individual units.

Conduit A metal pipe that houses electrical wiring.

Consent judgment A binding written agreement between two parties to have a judgment entered and recorded.

Conservator A court-appointed guardian.

Consideration Anything that is legal, has value and induces a person to enter into a contract.

Construction budget The funding that an owner arranges for the construction of a project.

Construction documents Drawings and specifications from an architect that provide detailed requirements for the construction of a project.

Construction loan Short-term loans a lender makes for the construction of homes and buildings. The lender disburses the funds in stages.

Construction to permanent loan The conversion of a construction loan to a longer-term traditional mortgage after construction has been completed.

Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS) A nationwide, nonprofit organization that helps consumers get out of debt and improve their credit profile. National headquarters: 8701 Georgia Avenue., Suite 507, Silver Springs, MD 20910. Phone: (800) 388-2227.

Contemporary style A design that features streamlined shapes, large unadorned windows and industrial materials.

Contiguous lots Pieces of property that are adjoined.

Contingency A condition specified in a purchase contract, such as a satisfactory home inspection.

Contingency listing A property listing with a special condition attached.

Contingent fee A fee that must be paid if a certain event occurs.

Contract An agreement between two or more parties that creates or modifies an existing relationship.

Contract for deed A contract in which the seller agrees to defer all or part of the purchase price for a specified period of time.

Contract to purchase A contract the buyer initiates which details the purchase price and conditions of the transaction and is accepted by the seller. Also known as an agreement of sale.

Contractor The individual who contracts for the construction of a home or project.

Contractual lien A voluntary obligation such as a mortgage or trust deed.

Controlled growth Any restrictions imposed on the amount or type of new development in an area.

Conventional loan A long-term loan a lender makes for the purchase of a home.

Convertible adjustable-rate mortgage A mortgage which starts as an adjustable-rate loan, but allows the borrower to convert the loan to a fixed-rate mortgage during a specified period of time.

Conveyance The transfer of title of property.

Conveyance tax A tax imposed on the transfer of real property.

Cooperating broker A real estate broker who finds a buyer for a property that another broker has listed.

Cooperative corporation A business trust that holds the title to a cooperative residential building and grants occupancy rights to shareholders in the corporation.

Cooperative mortgages Any loans related to a cooperative residential project.

Cooperative project A project in which a corporation holds title and sells shares representing individual units to buyers who then receive a proprietary lease as their title.

Cornice A horizontal molding that projects from the top of a structure or wall.

Corporate relocation An arrangement by which employers pay to transfer and move employees.

Co-signer A second party who signs a promissory note and takes responsibility for the debt.

Counteroffer A response to an offer.

Corner bead A reinforcement placed in the corner where two walls intersect.

Corner influence The effect on the value of a property because it is situated on a corner or near a corner.

Corrective work Necessary or desired repairs to remedy problems uncovered by a home or specialized inspection.

Cost-plus contract A construction contract that determines the builder's profit based on a percentage of the cost of labor and materials.

Cottage A small, one-story house.

Covenant A legal assurance or promise in a deed or other document, or implied by the law.

Covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) Rules and regulations for a development, such as acceptable landscaping or improvements that can be made to individual units.

Craftsman style An architectural style that evolved as part of the Arts and Craft movement near the turn of the century.

Crawl space The space between the ground and the first floor of a home, usually no higher than four feet.

Creative financing Innovative home-financing arrangements that help sell a property.

Credit The money a lender extends to a buyer for a commitment to repay the loan within a certain time frame.

Credit history A record of an individual's current and past debt payments.

Creditor An individual or institution to whom a debt is owed.

Credit life insurance Insurance that pays off a mortgage in the event of the borrower's death.

Credit rating The degree of credit worthiness assigned to a person based on credit history and financial status.

Credit report A credit bureau report that shows a loan applicant's history of payments made on previous debts. Several companies issue credit reports, but the three largest are Trans Union Corp., Equifax and Experian (formerly TRW ).

Credit repository Large companies that gather financial and credit information from various sources about individuals who have applied for credit.

Credit union Nonprofit cooperative organizations that provide banking and financial services, including mortgages, home improvement loans and home equity loans, to their members.

Cross-bridging The strengthening of a structure by bracing cross members between beams.

Cul de sac A street or alley that is closed at one end.

Cupola A dome-like structure that sits on top of a roof.

Curable defect A deficiency in a property that is easy or inexpensive to fix, such as chipping paint.

Curb appeal The first impression of a house as seen from the street.

Curtain wall An exterior wall that encloses a yard or other area but does not provide any structural support to a home.

Custom builder A builder who constructs a home or building based on plans created by the owner.

Custom home A structure designed by an architect hired by the owner.

Damper A movable plate in a fireplace that allows smoke and fumes to travel up the chimney's flue.

Days on the market The period of time a property is listed for sale until it is sold or taken off the market

Deadbolt lock Locks that require a key to open from the outside and a turn button from the inside.

Debt Any amount one person owes to another.

Deck A roofless, floored area that adjoins a house.

Deed The legal document that transfers ownership of a piece of property.

Deed of trust A document that gives a lender the right to foreclose on a piece of property if the borrower defaults on the loan.

Deep-seal floor drain A drain used to dispose of water from the basement floor to a sewer line.

Default The failure to fulfill a duty or promise or discharge an obligation, such as making monthly mortgage payments.

Deferred maintenance Any repair or maintenance of a piece of property that has been postponed, resulting in a decline in property value.

Delinquent mortgage A mortgage that involves a borrower who is behind on payments. If the borrower cannot bring the payments up to date within a specified number of days, the lender may begin foreclosure proceedings.

Density test An analysis of soil to determine if the surface can support the foundation of a house.

Dentils Small rectangular blocks that project from a building, usually under cornices or along rooflines.

Deposit Money given by the buyer with an offer to purchase property. Also called earnest money.

Depreciation The decline in value of a piece of property.

Design/build A project in which the owner contracts directly with an individual or company to perform design and construction.

Designer Unlike architects, designers are limited to drawing blueprints.

Digital images Images that are incorporated into house listings to give potential buyers a view of the property.

Dimension plans Plans which show the layout of a house but are less detailed than full blueprints.

Disability insurance An insurance policy which covers an individual's ability to produce income.

Disclosure A statement to a potential buyer listing information relevant to a piece of property, such as the presence of radon or lead paint.

Discount points Fees that a borrower pays at the time the lender makes the loan. A point equals 1 percent of the total loan amount.

Distressed property Property that is in poor physical or financial condition.

Document needs list A list of documents a lender requires when a potential submits a loan application.. The required documents range from paycheck stubs to credit card statements.

Domed ceiling A hemispherical ceiling that projects upward without support.

Domicile A person's primary or permanent home.

Dormer A window set upright in a sloping roof.

Double-hung window A window that consists of two sashes that slide up and down.

Dovetail joints Joints that lock two pieces of wood together with meshed teeth.

Down payment The amount of money a buyer agrees to give the seller when a sales agreement is signed. Complete financing is later secured with a lender.

Down spouts A vertical gutter that empties water from the roof to the ground.

Drainage A system of gutters and drainpipes that carry water away from the foundation of a house.

Draw A payment made to subcontractors or suppliers from a construction loan.

Dropped ceiling A flat ceiling built lower than the original ceiling.

Dry rot A fungal decay that causes wood to become brittle and crumble.

Drywall A construction material composed of gypsum or plaster wrapped in paper and produced in large sheets that can be nailed to wall studs.

Dual agency A relationship in which a real estate agent or broker represents both parties in a transaction.

Duct Any kind of pipe or channel that carries water, wiring or conditioned air through a house.

Due-on-sale clause Standard language in a mortgage which states that the loan must be paid when a house is sold.

Duplex A structure that consists of two separate family units.

Dutch colonial style A design that features barn-like gambrel roof, a ground-level front porch, and dormers.

Early occupancy The condition in which buyers can occupy the property before the sale is completed.

Earnest money Money a buyer gives with an offer to purchase a property. Also called a deposit.

Earthquake insurance A policy that provides coverage against damage to a home from an earthquake.

Easement A right given to a third party to use a portion of the property for certain purposes, such as power lines or water mains.

Eaves The projecting overhang at the lower edge of a roof.

Effective age The age of a structure estimated by its condition rather than its actual age.

Effective gross income Additional income that a lender considers when assessing the loan application of a potential borrower.

Electric service panel A panel that transfers power from the utility line into a house to be distributed through fuses or circuit breakers.

Elevations The exterior view of a home design that shows the position of the house relative to the grade of the land.

Ell An extension or wing of a house that is at right angles to the main structure.

Eminent domain The government's right to condemn private land for public use, such as the routing of a public highway.

Employer-assisted housing Programs which help employees purchase homes through special plans developed with lenders.

Empty nesters Potential buyers who have raised their families and want to move into a smaller home.

Encroachment Fences or other structures that extend into the property of another owner.

Encumbrance A claim or lien on a property which complicates the title process.

End loan The conversion from a construction loan to permanent financing a condominium buyer secures after all units in a project have been completed.

Endorser A person who signs over ownership of property to another party.

English Tudor style An architectural design that features stone or brick exterior walls and exposed beams.

Environmental impact statement A government-mandated evaluation of all aspects and effects a development will have on the environment of a proposed site.

Environmentally friendly home construction A method of construction that utilizes recycled materials.

Equal Credit Opportunity Act. A federal law that prohibits a lender or other creditor from refusing to grant credit based on the applicant's sex, marital status, race, religion, national origin or age. The law also prohibits a creditor from refusing to grant credit because the applicant receives public assistance.

Equifax Equifax Credit Information Services, Inc., is one of the "Big Three" credit-reporting bureaus that operate nationwide. Address: P.O. Box 740249, Atlanta, GA 30374.

Equity A determination of the value of a property after existing liens are deducted.

Errors and omissions insurance A policy that pays for any mistakes a builder or architect makes in a project.

Escrow A neutral third party holds the documents and money involved in a real estate transaction and ensures that all conditions of a sale are met.. Escrow also refers to a special account that a lender establishes to hold monthly installments from the borrower to cover property taxes and insurance.

Escrow account An account that a lender or mortgage servicer establishes to hold funds for the payment of expenses such as homeowners insurance and property taxes. Also known as an impound account.

Escrow agent A neutral third party who ensures that all conditions of a real estate transaction are met.

Escrow analysis A lender's periodic examination of an escrow account to determine if the lender is withholding enough funds from a borrower's monthly mortgage payment to pay for expenses such as property taxes and insurance.

Escrow closing Escrow closes when all conditions of a real estate transaction are met and the title of the property is transferred to the buyer.

Escrow company Firms that act as neutral third parties to ensure that all conditions that the buyer, seller and lender establish in a real estate transaction are met.

Escrow payment Funds that a mortgage servicer withdraws from a borrower's escrow account to pay property taxes and insurance.

Estate The total assets of a person, including real property, at the time of death.

Eviction A legal procedure to remove a tenant for reasons including failure to pay rent.

Examination of title An inspection by a title company of public records and other documents to determine the chain of ownership of a property.

Excavation The process of clearing trees, removing topsoil and grading land before the foundation is laid.

Exclusive listing A contract that gives an agent the exclusive right to market a property for a specific period of time.

Executor A person appointed to carry out the instructions in a will. If there is no will, a probate court will appoint an executor.

Exhaust fan Ventilating devices that remove water vapor, undesired smells or smoke.

Experian Experian, formerly known as TRW Information Systems & Services, is one of the "Big Three" credit-reporting bureaus.. Address: 505 City Parkway West, Orange, CA 92868.

Gable A triangular wall enclosed by the sloping ends of a ridged roof or a triangular decorative feature.

Gable roof A ridged roof that forms a triangle at each end.

Gag rules A provision in contracts signed by new buyers that prohibits the owners from publicizing complaints about the builder.

Gambrel roof A roof with two slopes, often seen on barns.

General contractor The person who hires all of the subcontractors and suppliers for a project.

General plan A government's long-range land-use plan.

Georgian style Popular throughout the 18th century, this type of architecture is distinguished by a symmetrical facade, prominent front entrance and quoins-decorative blocks of masonry or wood set in the corners of the house.

Geodesic dome A structure constructed of lightweight bars forming a grid of polygons.

Gift A cash gift a buyer receives from a relative or other source. Lenders usually require a "gift letter" stating that the money will not have to be repaid.

Gingerbread decoration An intricate, almost lacy, wood trim.

Girders Crossbeams that support floor joists.

Good-faith estimate An estimate from an institutional lender that shows the costs a borrower will incur, including loan-processing charges and inspection fees.

Government National Mortgage Association Commonly known as Ginnie Mae, this agency buys home loans from lenders, pools them with other loans and sells shares to investors. Ginnie Mae differs from its cousins, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, in that it only purchases loans backed by the federal government.

Grace period A specified amount of time to make a loan payment after its due date without penalty.

Grade The elevation of land above level ground.

Graduated-payment mortgage (GPM) A mortgage that requires a borrower to make larger monthly payments over the term of the loan. The payment is unusually low for the first few years but gradually rises until year three or five, then remains fixed.

Grade level The flat or sloping surface upon which a house is built.

Granny flat Slang term for a separate unit in a house or above the garage, which in the past may have been occupied by an elderly relative.

Grantee A person conveyed an interest in a piece of property.

Grantor The person who conveys an interest in a piece of property to another person.

Greek Revival style A style introduced in the U.S. at the end of the 18th century. Its most prominent feature is a pillar-anchored pediment forming a portico in the front of the house.

Greenbelt Any stretch of park, open space or other natural setting in a community.

Gross income The total income of a household before taxes or expenses are subtracted.

Ground fault circuit interrupter Devices that detect leakage of electrical current to the ground and prevent accidental shock.

Ground rent The amount of money paid for the use of a piece of property when it is a leasehold estate.

Group home A single-family residence used as a living space for unrelated, developmentally disabled or mentally disabled people.

Growing-equity mortgage A fixed rate mortgage that increases payments over a specific period of time. The extra funds are applied to the principal.

Guarantee mortgage A loan guaranteed by a third party, such as a government institution.

Gutters Horizontal channels installed at the edge of a roof to carry rainwater or melted snow away from the house.

Half-bath Also called a powder room, a half-bath contains a toilet and a sink but no bathtub or shower stall.

Hazard insurance This provision of homeowners insurance covers damage by fire, wind or other disaster. It is required by all lenders before a loan is approved.

Header Crossbeams above windows and doors.

Heat pump An electric cooling and heating system.

Hectare The equivalent of 2.471 acres.

High density The concentration of housing units in a specific area or on a specific property.

High-rise Any building higher than six stories.

Hip roof A pitched roof with sloping sides.

Historic preservation The physical rehabilitation of a historic home or building, and the movement of the same name begun in the 1960s in the U.S. to preserve and protect landmarks and urban neighborhoods.

Historic structure A home or building listed in the National Register of Historic Places and certified as historic by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior.

Home equity conversion mortgage Loans made to older owners who want to convert equity into money. Because borrowers are qualified on the basis of the value of their home, e, the loan is not the same as a home equity loan. Also known as reverse mortgages.

Home equity loan A loan that allows owners to borrow against the equity in their homes.

Home inspection An examination of a home's construction, condition and internal systems by an inspector or contractor prior to purchase.

Homeowners' association A group that governs a modern subdivision or planned community. An association collects monthly fees from all owners to pay for maintenance of common areas, handle legal and safety issues, and enforce the covenants, conditions and restrictions set by the developer.

Homeowners' insurance This insurance includes hazard coverage for any damages that may affect the value of a house, in addition to personal liability and theft coverage.

Homeowners' warranty Special insurance policies that cover certain home repairs for a specified amount of time.

Home rule The power of a local government to adopt its own land-use regulations.

Homesteading A document that to protects some of a home's equity from lawsuits.

Home warranty A type of insurance that covers repairs to certain parts of a house and some fixtures.

Hopper window A window that contains a single sash that tilts inward.

Hose bibb A threaded faucet connection for devices such as a washing machine.

Housing discrimination The illegal practice of denying an individual or group the right to buy or rent a home based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability or family status.

Housing expense ratio The percentage of gross monthly income devoted to housing costs.

House wrap A polyethylene barrier wrapped around a house to save energy.

HUD-1 Uniform Settlement Statement A closing statement or settlement sheet that outlines all closing costs on a real estate transaction or refinancing.

Impact fees Fees collected from developers of new homes to pay for schools, parks and other facilities.

Implied warranty of habitability Court cases which determined that all new homes are assumed to be fit for human habitation and meet all building codes.

Impounds A portion of the monthly mortgage payment that is placed in an account and used to pay for hazard insurance, property taxes and private mortgage insurance.

Income property Property that is not occupied by the owner but is used to generate income.

Incurable defect A defect in a property that cannot be fixed, such as an adjacent hazardous waste site, or that would cost too much to repair relative to the value of the property.

Index Financial tables used by lenders to calculate interest rates on adjustable mortgages and on Treasury bills.

Individual Retirement Account Tax-deferred savings accounts that allow people to accrue retirement funds.

In-file credit report Computer-generated reports drawn from credit repositories that are generally regarded as objective histories.

Infill development Any significant new construction in an established area.

Infill housing Home construction in established areas.

Inflation This event occurs when there is more money available than there are goods and services to be purchased. Mortgage rates, which are determined by the marketplace and the actions of the Federal Reserve Board and Wall Street, are sensitive to inflation fears.

Infrastructure The roads, schools, parks, utilities, bridges and communications systems in a community.

Initial interest rate The original interest rate on an adjustable mortgage.

Inspection report An examination of a home's exterior, foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical system, heating, air conditioning, fireplace, kitchen, bathroom, roofing and interior.

Installment contract A purchase agreement in which the buyer does not receive title to the property until all installments are paid.

Insulation Materials including cellulose, glass fiber, rock wool, polystyrene, urethane foam and vermiculite that slow heat loss.

Insurable title Title to property that a company agrees to insure against defects and disputes.

Insurance Owners and buyers can purchase various types of insurance: hazard, private mortgage and earthquake. The policies guarantee compensation for specific losses.

Insurance binder A temporary insurance arrangement usually put in force until a permanent policy can be obtained.

Interest The fee borrowers pay to obtain a loan. It is calculated based on a percentage of the total loan.

Interest accrual rate The rate at which interest accrues on a mortgage.

Interest-only loan The pays only the interest that accrues on the loan balance each month. Because each payment goes toward interest, the outstanding balance of the loan does not decline with each payment.

Interest rate The sum, expressed as a percentage, charged for a loan. Interest payments on most home loans are tax- deductible.

Interest rate buy-down plans For cash-short buyers, some sellers are willing to advance funds from the sale of the home to buy down the interest rate and reduce the buyer's monthly obligation.

Interest rate caps A limit on the amount that can be charged to the monthly payment of an adjustable-rate mortgage during an adjustment period.

Interest rate ceiling The highest interest a lender can charge for an adjustable-rate mortgage.

Investment property Real estate that generates income, such as an apartment building or a rental house.

Jalousie window A window that consists of vertical rows of horizontal glass slats that operate together by a crank mechanism that connects all the slats.

Joint liability The responsibility of two or more people to fulfill the terms of a home loan or debt.

Joint tenancy Ownership by two or more people that gives equal shares of a piece of property. Rights pass to the surviving owner or owners.

Joist A floor or ceiling support member supported by foundation walls, piers or beams. Sub flooring is connected to floor joists.

Judgment The decision of a court or law. If a court decides that a person must repay a debt, a lien may be placed against that person's property.

Judicial foreclosure A procedure to handle foreclosure proceedings as civil matters.

Jumbo mortgage Loans that exceed limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The current limit is $214,600.

Junior mortgage A loan that subordinate to the primary loan.

Kit home A structure that contains prefabricated components and is put together by a contractor.

Knee wall A wall-like structure that supports roof rafters.

Knob-and-tube wiring An old-fashioned wiring system that has been replaced by fuses and circuit breakers.

Landscape A home's surroundings can range from a shrub-studded emerald lawn to a native-plant scape. It is a major component of curb appeal.

Landscape architect A professional who holds a degree in landscape architecture, which involves training in horticulture, landscape design and planning.

Landscape designer A landscape designer has training in horticulture and landscape planning, but does not necessarily hold a degree.

Landscape contractor A professional who carries out the plans of a landscape architect or a landscape designer.

Late charge A fee a lender imposes on a borrower when the borrower does not make a payment on time.

Late payment A payment a lender receives after the due date has passed.

Latent defect An invisible problem in a piece of property such as bad wiring, termite damage or lead paint.

Lead A metallic chemical element present in older dwellings, primarily in the form of lead-based paint and lead plumbing. Exposure to lead has been found to be a health risk.

Lease A binding agreement that contains the terms and conditions of a renter's occupancy.

Leasehold estate An arrangement in which the borrower does not own a specific piece of property but possesses a long-term lease.

Lease option A lease that contains the right to purchase the property for a specific price within a certain time frame.

Lender A bank, savings institution or mortgage company that offers home loans.

Legal blemish Blemishes on a piece of property, such as a zoning violation or fraudulent title claim.

Legal description A specific way of identifying and locating a piece of real estate that is acceptable to a court.

Letter of intent A formal statement that the buyer intends to purchase the property for a certain price on a certain date.

Leverage The use of a small amount of cash--a 5 percent or 10 percent down payment--to buy a piece of property.

Liabilities A borrower's debts and financial obligations.

Liability insurance A policy that protects owners against any claims of negligence, personal injury or property damage.

Lien A claim laid by one person or company on the property of another as security for money owed.

Life cap A limit on the amount that a loan rate can move during the term of the mortgage. For example, the rate on an adjustable-rate mortgage that begins at 5 percent and has a lifetime cap of 6 percentage points cannot rise above 11 percent, even if rates on fixed-rate mortgages soar to 20 percent.

Life-cycle cost analysis An analysis of a building project's expected operating, maintenance and replacement costs, calculated by an architect.

Limited partnership Real estate syndicates and other investment groups use this type of ownership.. A general partner makes the group's investment decisions, oversees the investment and is principally liable for any losses.

Lintel A horizontal piece over a door or window that carries the weight of the structure above it.

Liquid assets Cash and all other assets that can be converted to cash relatively quickly. Liquid assets can include money in savings and checking accounts, money-market accounts, and most certificates of deposit.

Liquidated damages When a real estate deal goes awry, one party often is entitled to liquidated damages, a sum of money set out in the purchase contract in that event.

Listing A piece of property placed on the market by a listing agent.

Listing inventories The known number of houses for sale within a given market.

Live-in partnership An arrangement in which two unrelated people purchase a home.

Live-work space An officially designated dwelling in which the occupant conducts a home-based business or enterprise.

Load-bearing wall A wall that supports not only its own weight, but the weight of other parts of a home. Also called a bearing wall.

Loan application The first step toward submitting a home loan requires the borrower to itemize basic financial information.

Loan application fee A fee charged by lenders to for making a loan application.

Loan commitment A promise by a lender or other financial institution to make or insure a loan for a specified amount and on specific terms.

Loan officer An official representative of a lending institution who is empowered to act on behalf of the lender within certain limits.

Loan origination fee Most lenders charge borrowers an origination fee--or points--for processing a loan. A point is 1 percent of the total loan amount.

Loan processing fee A fee charged by some lenders for gathering information to enable the lender to process the loan.

Loan term The amount of a time set by the lender for a buyer to pay a mortgage. Most conventional loans have 30-year or 15-year terms.

Loan -to-value ratio A technical measure used by lenders to assess the relationship of the loan amount to the value of the property

Lock-in When interest rates are volatile, many borrowers want to "lock in" an interest rate and many lenders will oblige, setting a limit on the amount of time the lock-in is in effect.

Loft A living space not partitioned into rooms or a small space built above a larger room.

Log cabin Homes constructed of rough-hewn timbers and a standard housing form in the early European settlement of the U.S.

Low-ball offer An offer made to a seller that is substantially below market value. The longer a property stays on the market, the more likely there are to be such offers.

Low density A low concentration of housing units in a specific area.

Low-documentation loan A mortgage that requires only minimal verification of income and assets.

Low-down-payment loan A home loan that requires the borrower to make only a small down payment before obtaining the financing needed to purchase a house.

Main water shut-off valve The primary valve that halts the flow of water from the water meter into a home.

Mansard roof A roof with four sides that slope upward from the roof edge to the square peak.

Manufactured housing Prefabricated homes that can range from simple trailers to larger dwellings.

Mantel The facing of stone, marble or other material around a fireplace.

Maintenance fee The monthly assessment members of a homeowners' association pay for the repair and maintenance of common areas.

Managed-competition lots Lots in which buyers choose between one of several builders.

Margin The lender's "retail markup" on the mortgage. For example, if the index rate for an adjustable-rate mortgage is 5 percent but the lender has a 2.5 percentage-point margin, the rate the borrower will pay is 7.5 percent.

Market conditions Factors affecting the sale and purchase of homes at a particular point in time.

Market value The price that a piece of property sells for at a particular point in time.

Masonry The brick or stone work on a building.

Master-planned community A suburban plan that includes homes and commercial, work, educational and community facilities.

Maximum financing A loan amount within 5 percent of the highest loan-to-value ratio allowed for a property.

Mechanical systems A home's plumbing, wiring, heating and cooling systems.

Mechanic's lien Subcontractors or suppliers sometimes will file an encumbrance, or mechanic's lien, against a property to seek payment.

Mediation A dispute-resolution process in which a neutral party works to resolve contract differences.

Median price The price of the house that falls in the middle of the total number of homes for sale in that area.

Merged credit report A report that draws information from the Big Three credit-reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion Corp.

Metes and bounds A time-honored land surveying method of describing land in terms of shape and boundary dimensions.

Mint condition Mint condition, or blue-ribbon condition, refers to a house that looks as close to new as possible.

Mixed-income housing A neighborhood that contains houses of widely varying prices.

Mixed-use development A project that combines several different functions, such as residential space above a commercial establishment or an entire development combining commercial, residential and public accommodations.

Modification A change in any of the terms of the loan agreement.

Molding Decorative trim elements applied to walls, ceilings, and window and door openings.

Money market account Accounts that work like money market funds and allow individual investors to participate in certain managed investments and withdraw funds under most conditions.

Money market funds A mutual fund that pools the resources of individuals to invest in certain managed investments.

Mortgage A legal document specifying a certain amount of money to purchase a home at a certain interest rate, and using the property as collateral.

Mortgagee A bank or other financial institution that lends money to the borrower. The borrower is considered the mortgagor.

Mortgagor The person who borrows money to purchase a house. The lender is called the mortgagee.

Mortgage acceleration clause A clause which allows a lender to demand that the entire balance of the loan be repaid in a lump sum under certain circumstances. The acceleration clause is usually triggered if the home is sold, title to the property is changed, the loan is refinanced or the borrower defaults on a scheduled payment.

Mortgage banker A company that provides home loans using its own money. The loans are usually sold to investors such as insurance companies and Fannie Mae.

Mortgage broker A company that matches lenders with prospective borrowers who meet the lender's criteria. The mortgage broker does not make the loan, but receives payment from the lender for services.

Mortgage insurance Required by lenders in some loans to protect them from a possible default . All conventional loans with less than a 20 percent down payments require private mortgage insurance, or PMI.

Mortgage-interest deduction The tax write-off that the Internal Revenue Service allows most owners to claim for the annual interest payments they make on their real estate loans.

Mortgage life insurance A special type of insurance that will pay off a mortgage if the borrower dies before the debt is retired.

Motivated buyer Any buyer with a strong incentive to make a purchase.

Motivated seller Any seller with a strong incentive to make a deal.

Move-in condition A house that is ready for a new occupant.

Move-up buyer A buyer who has purchased a home before and is looking for a bigger or more expensive home.

Mullion A vertical dividing bar between window lights or panels.

Multidwelling property A property that contains individual units for several households but carries only one mortgage.

Multifamily mortgage A mortgage on a multifamily dwelling with more than four families, typically an apartment building.

Multiple listing service (MLS) The service combines the listings for all available homes in an area, except For-Sale-By-Owner (FSBO) properties, in one directory or database.

Multiple offers Multiple purchase offers occur in hot markets or hot neighborhoods.

Municipal housing inspector Inspectors employed by cities or counties to check all construction sites and verify that contractors are meeting building codes.

Nail pops Nails in load-bearing parts of new homes that pop out slightly because of settling of the structure.

Needs-based pricing A seller's asking price that is based on factors such as the required funds to pay off the mortgage, the cost of remodeling or the purchase of another house.

Negative amortization The situation occurs when a borrower's monthly payment is not large enough to cover both the principal and interest of a loan. As a result, the outstanding balance of the loan actually grows larger with each payment rather than smaller. Most fixed-rate loans are not subject to negative amortization, but many adjustable-rate mortgages are susceptible.

Negative-slope driveway A driveway that drops from street level to the garage.

Neo-traditional planning Planning of a community that favors the return of new-home development with such traditional features as grid-street patterns, prominent front porches, backyard garages, multi-use buildings and housing clustered near commercial service areas.

Net cash flow Investment property that generates income after expenses such as principal, interest, taxes and insurance are subtracted.

Net worth The worth of a person or company based on the difference between total assets and liabilities.

New Urbanism A community design philosophy that favors the return of new-home development with such traditional features as prominent front porches, backyard garages, multi-use buildings and housing clustered near commercial service areas.

Niche A small recessed area in a wall, traditionally arched at the top.

NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) The response sometimes given by neighborhoods and communities to proposed changes or development.

No cash-out refinance The amount of the new mortgage covers the remaining balance of the first loan, closing costs, any liens and cash no more than 1 percent of the principal on the new loan.

No-competition lots A lot in which the buyer's home will be constructed by a particular builder.

No-documentation loan A loan application that does not require verification of income but typically is granted in cases of large down payments.

Non-assumption clause A loan provision that prohibits the transfer of a mortgage to another borrower without lender approval.

Non-liquid asset An asset such as a house that is not easily turned into cash.

Non-recurring closing costs Costs that are one-time only fees for such items as an appraisal, loan points, credit report, title insurance and a home inspection.

Note The legal document that requires a borrower to repay a mortgage at a certain interest rate over a specified period of time.

Note rate The interest rate specified in a mortgage note.

Notice of default A lender's initial action when a mortgage payment is late and attempts to reconcile the issue out of court have failed.

Online real estate listings Properties listed for sale on the Internet.

Open house A marketing tool in which a listing agent opens a house for view.

Open listing A property given to a number of brokers to market at the same time.

Open space Undeveloped land or common areas in a planned community reserved for parks, walking paths or other natural uses.

Option A situation in which a buyer puts down money for the right to purchase a piece of real estate within a set time period but does not have an obligation to buy.

Oral agreement Contractual arrangements that are not in writing and are usually not legally binding.

Original principal balance The amount of principal owed on a loan before a borrower makes any payments.

Origination fee A fee charged by most lenders--also called points--for processing a loan. A point is 1 percent of the total loan amount.

Overhang A protruding structural feature.

Owner financing A transaction in which the seller of a property agrees to finance all or part of the purchase.

Parcel An officially described piece of land.

Partition An interior wall.

Partnership There are several partnership options for unmarried individuals to buy a piece of property, such as live-in partnerships (in which both buyers share the residence) or a shared-equity partnership (in which one buyer lives in the home and the other is an investor in the property).

Passive loss A tax term that refers to any loss from a passive activity, such as the ownership but not the operation of a piece of rental real estate.

Passive solar system A system that supplies solar heat without the use of electric fans or pumps.

Patent defect A visible deficiency in a piece of property, such as a cracked basement slab or a sagging porch.

Payment cap A legal limit on the amount a monthly payment can increase on an adjustable-rate mortgage.

Percolation test A test used to determine the ability of soil to accommodate a septic system.

Per-diem interest Interest charged or accrued daily.

Panel A section or division of a wall, ceiling or a flat piece of building material that forms the part of the surface of a wall, door or cabinet.

Paneling Strips of wood or wood material applied as a finish to a wall.

Parking strip The strip of grass between the sidewalk and the street in front of a house.

Partition Any kind of structure dividing one room or space from another.

Patio An interior courtyard or a paved backyard area.

Perennial Any plant that produces leaves, flowers and seeds from year to year, such as irises or peonies.

Pergola An arbor with an open roof of rafters supported by posts or columns.

Personal property Any moveable property in a house such as furniture or appliances.

Pest-control inspection A common pest-control inspection is a termite inspection, which is required in some states, such as California.

Pier A rectangular masonry support column.

PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance) When a buyer applies for a loan, the lender will calculate the principal, interest, taxes and insurance. The figure is designed to represent the borrower's actual monthly mortgage-related expenses.

Planned communities The concept began in the 19th century and describes any town or neighborhood built with certain guidelines and goals.

Planned-unit development Residents own the home and the land, and share the use and financial responsibility for common areas.

Plaster A labor-intensive and more costly wall finish.

Pocket door A sliding door that retreats into the wall when opened.

Point Fees charged by lenders at the time a loan is originated. A point is equal to 1 percent of the total loan amount.

Porch The structure can be a simple covered entrance to a home or a fully enclosed room on the outside of a residence.

Porte cochere A porch-like roof extending over a driveway.

Portfolio lender A lender who makes loans with its own funds and keeps the loans on the company's books--in other words, inside the institution's "portfolio"--rather than selling the loan on the secondary market.

Portico A porch supported by a row of columns.

Possession When a buyer signs the papers and receives the keys to the house, the buyer officially takes possession.

Power of attorney A document that authorizes an individual to act on behalf of someone else.

Pre-approval letter A letter from a lender that informs a seller about the amount of money that a potential buyer can obtain.

Prepaid expenses The costs for taxes, insurance and assessments paid before the due date.

Prepaid interest Interest paid before it is due. For example, at the close of a real estate transaction borrowers usually pay for the interest on their loan that falls between the closing period and the first monthly payment.

Prepayment penalty Lenders can impose a penalty on a borrower who pays a loan off before its expected end date.

Prequalification Many lenders will prequalify a borrower who is shopping for a loan by completing a preliminary assessment of the buyer's ability to pay for a home.

Pre-sold home Homes that are sold before they are built.

Pressure relief valve A safety vent that relieves excess pressure in a water heater.

Price range The range of how much a buyer is willing to pay for a home.

Primer The initial coat of paint that is applied before the final topcoat.

Principal The amount of money that the borrower owes on a mortgage.

Principle of conformity The idea that a house will more likely appreciate in value if its size, age, condition and style are similar to, or conform to, other houses in the neighborhood.

Principle of progression An appraisal term which states that real estate of lower value is enhanced by the proximity of higher-end properties.

Principle of regression An appraisal term which states that the value of higher-end real estate can be brought down by the proximity of too many lower-end properties.

Privacy fence A structure erected between two pieces of property.

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) A special type of loan insurance that many lenders require borrowers to purchase if the borrower's down payment is less than 20 percent of the home's purchase price.

Probate sale A real estate sale triggered by the death of the owner, with proceeds to be divided among heirs or creditors.

Production home Homes that are mass-produced by one builder in a project.

Programming A written summation by an architect of a project's design objectives, constraints and criteria.

Project budget A fiscal outline that includes the construction budget and all costs for land, furniture, equipment, financing, professional services, contingencies and owner-furnished goods and services.

Property line The official dividing line between properties.

Property report A disclosure issued by the state when a time-share project is located or sold.

Property tax Property taxes are calculated at about 1.5 percent of the current market value.

Property tax deduction The U.S. tax code allows homeowners to deduct the amount they have paid in property taxes.

Property value The value of a piece of property is based on the price a buyer will pay at a certain time.

Proration Agreed-upon percentages of certain expenses associated with a piece of property that must be paid by the buyer or the seller at the time of closing.

Punch list Buyers compile a punch list during the final walk-through detailing items to be fixed before closing.

Purchase agreement A document which details the purchase price and conditions of the transaction.

Purchase-money mortgage A mortgage that a borrower obtains to acquire a property.

Qualifying ratios Lenders compute qualifying ratios to determine how much a potential buyer can borrow.

Queen Anne style A Victorian-era style that originated in San Francisco.

Quit-claim deed A document that releases a party from any interest in a piece of real estate.

R-value A construction term that refers to the resistance of to heat loss. The higher the R-value, the slower the rate of heat loss.

Radon A ground-generated radioactive gas that seeps into some homes through sump pumps, cracks in the foundation and other inlets. A leading cause of lung cancer , radon is found in mostly the northern half of the country.

Rafter Rafters form the slope of a pitched roof and are analogous to floor joists.

Rammed-earth construction An alternative building process in which dirt is compacted into large structural frames to create walls.

Ranch style Modern ranch-style homes, popularized in the 1950s, were championed by such architectural giants as Frank Lloyd Wright.

Rate-improvement mortgage A loan with a clause that entitles a borrower to a one-time cut in the interest rate without going through refinancing.

Rate lock When interest rates are volatile, many borrowers want to "lock in" an interest rate and many lenders will oblige, setting a limit on the amount of time the guaranteed interest rate is in effect.

Real estate Land and anything permanently affixed to it, including buildings, fences and other items attached to the structure.

Real estate agent A real estate agent has a state license to represent a buyer or a seller in a real estate transaction in exchange for a commission. Most agents work for real estate brokers.

Real estate attorney A lawyers who specializes in real estate transactions.

Real estate broker A real estate agent who is licensed by the state to represent a buyer or seller in a real estate transaction in exchange for a commission. Most brokers also have agents working for them, and are entitled to a portion of their commissions.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) The trusts are publicly traded companies that own, develop and operate commercial properties.

Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) A federal law designed to make sellers and buyers aware of settlement fees and other transaction-related costs. RESPA also outlaws kickbacks in the real estate business.

Real property Land and any permanent fixtures on it, including buildings, trees and minerals.

Realtist A designation for an agent or broker who is a member of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers.

Realtor® A designation for an agent or broker who is a member of the National Association of Realtors®.

Rescission The cancellation of a contract by law or consent by the parties involved.

Reconveyance When a borrower completely pays off the mortgage, the property is reconveyed to them from the lender.

Recorder A public official responsible for keeping the records of all real estate transactions.

Recording The filing of a specific document to the appropriate government entity.

Recording fee A fee charged by real estate agents for conveying the sale of a piece of property into the public record.

Redlining The practice by a bank or insurance company to deny credit or insurance to people based on ethnic background or neighborhood.

Refinancing The process of replacing an older loan with a new mortgage that has better terms.

Regulation Z The federal code issued under the Truth-in-Lending Act which requires that a borrower be advised in writing of all costs associated with the credit portion of a financial transaction.

Rehabilitation mortgage A mortgage that provides for the costs of repairing and improving a resale home or building.

Relocation benefits Benefits provided by employers for new workers and can include moving costs, reimbursement for temporary housing and transportation, real estate agent assistance and discounted loans.

Relocation company A firm that administers all aspects of moving in new employees to the community.

Remaining balance The amount of unpaid principal on a home loan.

Remaining term The original loan term minus the number of payments made.

Renter's insurance A policy that covers the replacement value of possessions.

Rent loss insurance A policy that covers any loss of rent or rental value in the event of fire or other damage that renders the property uninhabitable.

Repayment plan When a borrower falls behind in mortgage payments, many lenders will negotiate a repayment plan rather than go to court.

Replacement reserve fund Money that is set aside from homeowners' assessments to replace common property, such as furniture in a planned development's community room.

Repossession When a house is repossessed, it is taken back by the lender holding the mortgage.

Resale value The future value of a piece of property that can be affected by many factors, including the surrounding neighborhood, school scores, and economic and housing market conditions.

Reserve fund All homeowners associations set aside a certain amount of money for major repairs or improvements.

Restructured loan A mortgage in which new terms are negotiated.

Return on investment The amount of profit a property generates.

Reverse mortgage A special type of loan available to equity-rich, older owners. Repayment is not necessary until the borrower sells the property or moves into a retirement community.

Ridge board A horizontal board that serves as the apex of the roof structure.

Ridge vent A vent located along the ridge board of the roof that allows moisture to escape.

Right of first refusal An agreement by a property owner to give another person the right to buy or rent the property before it goes on the open market.

Right to recission A provision in the federal Truth-in-Lending Act that allows borrowers to cancel certain kinds of loans within three days of signing.

Rough-in The installation of plumbing, electrical and other mechanical systems.

Rural Housing Service A U.S. Department of Agriculture program that provides financing to farmers and certain borrowers to purchase rural property when other funds are not available.

Sale-leaseback A transaction in which the buyer leases back the property to the seller for a specified period of time.

Sales contract A contract signed by the buyer and seller that details the terms of a home purchase.

Saltbox style A design that dates to colonial times and takes its name from the shape of saltboxes.

Sanitary sewer The drain line in a house that carries away food and human wastewater to a municipal sewer system or a septic system.

Sash One of two windows in a double-hung window.

Schematic designs Renderings of floor plans and the exterior of a house.

Second mortgage Another loan placed upon a piece of property.

Secondary mortgage market A market of packaged home loans that are resold as securities to investors. Major players are Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Secured loan Any loan backed by collateral.

Security Apiece of property designated as collateral.

Seller broker A seller broker represents the interest of the seller.

Seller carry-back An agreement in which the seller provides financing for a home purchase.

Seller take-back An agreement in which the seller provides financing for a home purchase.

Seller's market A hot real estate market in which sellers have the advantage and multiple offers are common.

Semi-custom home The buyer of a semi-custom home is free to make some design changes but not to the home's structural plan.

Septic system A self-contained sewage treatment system that distributes wastewater to an underground storage area and relies on bacterial action to decompose solid waste matter.

Servicer A firm that collects mortgage payments and manages borrowers' escrow accounts.

Setback The minimum distance a house or buildings must be from the lot line.

Settlement statement A document that details who has paid what to whom.

Shared-appreciation mortgage A loan that allows a lender or other party to share in the borrower's profits when the home is sold.

Shared-equity transaction A transaction in which two buyers purchase a property, one as a resident co-owner and the other as an investor co-owner.

Shed ceiling A shed ceiling pitches upward at one end.

Shed roof A shed roof pitches up longer on one side than the other.

Shingle style An alternative style of Victorian homes that evolved in the late 19th century to simplify the complexity of the traditional Victorian house.

Shingles Thin, wedge-shaped pieces of wood or flat rectangular pieces of slate, mineral fiber, glass fiber or composition asphalt installed on a roof to prevent water seepage.

Shoe molding An unobtrusive finish trim between the floor and the baseboard designed to hide any irregularities in the seam between the floor and wall or baseboard.

Sill plate A horizontal piece of wood placed on top of the foundation.

Sill cock An exterior threaded faucet connection for garden hoses that provides water outside a home.

Skylight A window in a roof that allows natural light to illuminate a room.

Slab foundation A foundation built directly on soil with no basement or crawl space.

Slider window A window that is composed of two windows, or sashes, that glide open and closed on a metal track.

Soffit An external area under the overhang of a roof.

Soils test A test of the subsoil to ensure that foundations can be safely constructed.

Spanish Mission style A design that is derived from the original missions established by the Spanish in the Southwest.

Special assessment When a homeowners' association needs or wants extra funds, it levies a special assessment upon the owners.

Special deposit account Rehabilitation mortgages require a special deposit account from which restoration and remodeling funds included in the loan are disbursed to the appropriate contractors as work is completed.

Specifications The written requirements for materials, equipment, construction systems and standards.

Speculation home A home that has been built without a buyer.

Splash block A slanted block used to divert runoff water from a downspout away from the foundation.

Split-level style A home that is a ranch-style house stacked to fit on a smaller lot and perhaps to accommodate a garage.

Square footage The number of square feet of livable space in a home or building.

Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area Areas designated by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget that contain a city of 50,000 or more.

Standard payment calculation A calculation that is used to determine the monthly payment necessary to repay the balance of a home loan in equal installments.

Starter home Homes that fall within the lower price range of a typical first-time buyer.

Steel framing A construction method used by commercial and residential builders.

Step-rate mortgage A loan that allows a gradual increase in the interest rate during the first few years of the loan.

Storm sewer A drain line, which is not connected to the sewer line, removes all other wastewater from a home.

Storm windows Sets of windows and screens that are installed on older double-hung windows.

Strike plate The metal part of a lock that is anchored to the doorframe and holds the door closed.

Straight purchase A transaction in which the buyer gives a new-home builder a deposit to begin building and the balance when the sale of the house closes.

Stucco A mixture of sand and cement used to cover the exterior surface or interior walls of a home or building.

Studs The upright pieces of lumber or steel in a wall to which panels, siding, drywall or other coverings are attached.

Subagent When an agent brings a buyer to a property, they in effect act as a subagent to the listing agent.

Subcontractor Specialty construction companies hired by the general contractor to perform certain tasks.

Subdivision The process in which the owner of a large piece of property divides it into smaller parcels.

Sub-flooring The sheathing, usually made of plywood, placed on top of floor joists and covered by flooring.

Subordinate loan A second or third mortgage.

Sump pump A pump that moves water from a basement sump pit.

Survey A precise measurement of a piece of property by a licensed surveyor.

Sweat equity The non-cash value put into a piece of property by the owner, such as do-it-yourself home improvements.

Tap fees Most companies charge a tap fee for hooking up utilities.

Tax deduction A tax break given by the government. Mortgage interest, loan points and property taxes can be deducted.

Tax lien An impediment placed against a property, such as back taxes.

Tax sale The public sale of a property by the government for nonpayment of taxes.

Tax shelter A term often applied to real estate investment and refers to various tax advantages.

Tear-down condition A house that requires the entire interior to be rebuilt.

Teaser rate An low, short-term rate offered on a mortgage to entice the borrower.

Tenancy by the entirety When a married couple owns a home, it is usually considered tenancy by the entirety If the property must be sold to pay the debts of one spouse, both must agree.

Tenants in common Two or more owners who share interest in a specific property.

Terrace A terrace can be several things: an unroofed paved area right next to a house; a roofed balcony; a veranda; or a raised bed of earth constructed to enhance a landscape.

The 72-hour clause When a buyer has a house to sell before they can purchase another home, most sellers insist on a 72-hour clause. In the event of a better offer coming in before the contingency is settled, this clause entitles the seller to give the buyer 72 hours to remove the contingency or lose the house.

Third-party origination In a third-party origination transaction, the lender has another institution originate all or part of a mortgage.

Timeshare Ownership that involves the acquisition of a specific period of time, or that percentage of interest, in a vacation home or resort.

Title The actual legal document conferring ownership of a piece of real estate.

Title company Firms that ensure that the title to a piece of property is clear and provide title insurance.

Title insurance A policy issued to lenders and buyers to protect any losses because of a dispute over the ownership of a piece of property.

Title risk Possible impediments to the transfer of a title from one owner to another.

Title search A check of public title records to ascertain that the seller is the legal owner and that there are no claims or liens against the property.

Top producer A real state industry term that refers to agents and brokers who sell a high volume of homes.

Top soil The top layer of soil that is removed when lots are graded in preparation for construction.

Total expense ratio The percentage of monthly debt obligations relative to gross monthly income.

Townhouse An attached home that is not a condominium.

Tract home Another term for a production home, a mass-produced house constructed by one builder in a project.

Trade equity Other real estate or assets a buyer gives to a seller as part of the down payment.

Trading down A reference to buyers who purchase a home that is less expensive than their current house.

Trading up A reference to buyers who purchase a home that is more expensive home than their current house.

Transfer of ownership Any legal means by which a piece of real estate changes hands.

Transfer tax An assessment by state or local authorities at the time a piece of property changes hands.

Transom A small hinged window directly above a door.

Trans-Union Trans-Union Corp. is one of the "Big Three" credit-reporting bureaus that operate nationwide. Address: 760 Sproul Road, P.O. Box 390, Springfield, PA 19064-0390. Phone: (312) 408-1400.

Tray ceiling A tray ceiling has edges that slant toward the middle from the walls.

Treasury bills Securities issued by the Treasury Department that have the full backing of the U.S. government.

Treasury index An index used to determine interest rate changes for adjustable rate mortgages.

Trellis A decorative landscape structure made of thin strips of wood or plastic.

Trim work The finishing of doors, doorways, window frames and floors.

Truss A prefabricated framework of girders, struts and other items used to support a roof or other load-bearing elements.

Trust account Special accounts used by brokers and escrow agents to safeguard funds for a buyer or seller.

Trustee A legally empowered person who holds or controls a piece of property for another person.

Truth-in-Lending Act A federal law that protects consumers in a variety of ways. One of its key provisions allows a consumer to cancel a home-improvement loan, second mortgage or other loan if the home was pledged as security (except for a first mortgage or first trust deed) until midnight of the third business day after the contract was signed.

Tuck-point The process of removing old mortar from between bricks and replacing it with new mortar.

Two-step mortgage An adjustable mortgage with two interest rates, one for the first five or seven years of the loan, and the other for the remainder of the loan term.

Two- to four-family property A piece of property that is owned by one person but provides housing for up to four households.

Underlayment A layer of wood between the sub floor and the floor.

Underwriting The process that lenders go through to evaluate the risks posed by a particular borrower and to set appropriate conditions for the loan.

Undisclosed heir A person who claims the right to a piece of property after the death of an owner without a will.

Undisclosed spouse An unidentified marital partner who can claim the right to a piece of property.

Unrecorded deed An unrecorded deed transfers ownership from one party to another without being officially recorded.

U.S. Department. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) A federal agency that oversees the Federal Housing Administration and a variety of housing and community development programs.

Unsecured loan Any loan that is not backed by collateral.

Upgrades Options than the standard carpeting, lighting, finish carpentry and other amenities offered to all buyers in a new-home project.

Upzoning The process in which a property is zoned from a lower to a higher use.

Urban sprawl The unplanned expansion of development over a large area.

Usury A reference to illegally excessive interest charged on any loan.

Variable interest rate A loan rate that moves up and down based on factors including changes in the rate paid on bank certificates of deposit or Treasury bills.

Variable rate mortgage A loan with an interest rate that hinges on factors such as the rate paid on bank certificates and Treasury bills.

Variable rate An interest rate that changes with fluctuations in such indexes as the U.S. Treasury bill index.

Vaulted ceiling An elongated half-cylinder that arches above the floor.

Verification of deposit Part of the loan process, in which a lender will ask a borrower's bank to sign a statement verifying the borrower's account balances and history.

Verification of employment Part of the loan process, in which a lender asks the borrower's employer for confirmation of the borrower's position and salary.

Vestibule A small entrance hall or room.

Veterans Administration (VA) The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs operates a variety of programs to help veterans. One of the key plans it oversees is the VA loan program, which allows most veterans to purchase a house without a down payment.

Victorian style An architectural style that dates from the mid-19th century.

Vinyl-clad windows Wood windows sheathed in vinyl on the outside.

Voluntary lien A lien that a homeowner willingly gives to a lender.

VA loans A program that allows most veterans to purchase a house without a down payment.

Wainscoting Wood paneling, tongue-and-groove boards or similar material installed between a baseboard and a chair rail.

Waiver A voluntary relinquishing of certain rights or claims.

Walk-out basement A feature that allows a door to open onto ground level.

Walk-through A buyer's final inspection of the home to determine if conditions in the purchase agreement have been satisfied.

Warranty A legally binding promise to do something in the future.

Wetlands Watery areas such as swamps, marshes and floodplains.

Wild deed An improperly recorded deed.

Will The most basic legal document outlining the disposition of a person's estate in the event of death.

Window light An individual pane of glass.

Window seat A bench built under an interior window.

Window well A curved, corrugated steel insert used to isolate basement windows from moisture if they're below the soil line.

Window well covers Curved plastic covers designed to be installed on top of a window well to cover the opening.

Wraparound mortgage A loan to a buyer for the remaining balance on a seller's first mortgage and an additional amount requested by the seller. Payments on both loans are made to the lender who holds the wraparound loan.

Zero-lot lines Houses built without space between them and with little or no yard.

Zoning Regulations that control the use of land within a jurisdiction..

Zoning variance A one-time modification of existing zoning law.

Frequently asked questions about Interest Rates, how they work, and the options available.

Q:	How does FHA work?
A:	The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers a variety of loan insurance programs through the Federal Housing Administration which require approximately 3 to 5 percent cash down. FHA loan limits vary depending on the county where the property is located. FHA loans administered by HUD are originated by private lenders. For more information, contact lenders who offer FHA loans or a regional HUD office. Resources: * "FHA Forms, Booklets and Publications," U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Printing Branch, Room B-100, 451 7th St., Washington, DC 20410; call (800)767-7468.

Q:	Which lenders offer FHA loans?
A:	Lenders who handle Federal Housing Administration loans typically advertise in the Yellow Pages under "real estate loans" and in the real estate sections of newspapers. FHA also supplies limited lists of approved lenders. For general qualifications and program details, see the FHA brochure, "How to Qualify for an FHA Loan." To order, write the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Printing Branch, Room B-100, 451 7th St., Washington, DC 20410; (800) 767-7468.

Q:	Do FHA loans require impound accounts?
A:	Yes, according to the "Realty Bluebook," 30th Ed., Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1993: "Under FHA financing it is the lender's responsibility to ascertain that property taxes and hazard insurance premiums are paid when due. Lenders, therefore, will insist that the monthly payments include proportionate amounts for taxes and insurance."

Q:	How do you find government-repossessed homes?
A:	The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development acquires properties from lenders who foreclose on mortgages insured by HUD. These properties are available for sale to both homeowner-occupants and investors. You can only purchase HUD-owned properties through a licensed real estate broker. HUD will pay the broker's commission up to 6 percent of the sales price. Down payments vary depending on whether the property is eligible for FHA insurance. If not, payments range from the conventional market's 5 to 20 percent. One caution. HUD homes are sold "as is," meaning limited repairs have been made made but no structural or mechanical warranties are implied.

Q:	What are rates for FHA and VA loans?
A:	There are no set interest rates for FHA and VA loans. The FHA stopped regulating rates in 1983 and the VA followed suit soon after. Shop around for the best rate.

Q:	Can I get a HUD home for as little as $100 down?
A:	If you are strapped for cash and looking for a bargain, you may be able to buy a foreclosure property acquired by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for as little as $100 down. With HUD foreclosures, down payments vary depending on whether the property is eligible for FHA insurance. If not, payments range from 5 to 20 percent. But when the property is FHA-insured, the down payment can go much lower. Each offer must be accompanied by an "earnest money" deposit equal to 5 percent of the bid price, not to exceed $2,000 but not less than $500. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also offers foreclosure properties which can be purchased directly from the VA often well below market value and with a down payment amount as low as 2 percent for owner-occupants. Investors may be required to pay up to 10 percent of the purchase price as a down payment. This is because the VA guarantees home loans and often ends up owning the property if the veteran defaults. If you are interested in purchasing a VA foreclosure, call 1-800-827-1000 to request a current listing. About 100 new properties are listed every two weeks. You should be aware that foreclosure properties are sold "as is," meaning limited repairs have been made but no structural or mechanical warranties are implied.

Q:	Are there programs for fixer-uppers?
A:	If you need home loan to buy a "fixer-upper" and remodel it, look at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Section 203(K) loan program. The program is designed to facilitate major structural rehabilitation of houses with one to four units that are more than one year old. Condominiums are not eligible. A 203(K) loan is usually done as a combination loan to purchase a "fixer-upper" property "as is" and rehabilitate it, or to refinance a temporary loan to buy the property and do the rehabilitation. It can also be done as a rehabilitation-only loan. Investors must put 15 percent down while owner-occupants are required to come up with only 3 to 5 percent. HUD requires that a minimum of $5,000 be spent on improvements. Two appraisals are required. Plans and specifications for the proposed work must be submitted for architectural review and cost estimation. Mortgage proceeds are advanced periodically during the rehabilitation period to finance the construction costs.

Q:	Are there gov't programs for rehab?
A:	The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Section 203 (K) rehabilitation loan program is designed to facilitate major structural rehabilitation of houses with one to four units that are more than one year old. Condominiums are not eligible. The 203(K) loan is usually done as a combination loan to purchase a fixer-upper property "as is" and rehabilitate it, or to refinance a temporary loan to buy the property and do the rehabilitation. It can also be done as a rehabilitation-only loan. Plans and specifications for the proposed work must be submitted for architectural review and cost estimation. Mortgage proceeds are advanced periodically during the rehabilitation period to finance the construction costs. For a list of participating lenders, call HUD at (202) 708-2720. If you are a veteran, loans from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also can be used to buy a home, build a home, improve a home or to refinance an existing loan. VA loans frequently offer lower interest rates than ordinarily available with other kinds of loans. To qualify for a loan, the first step is to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility. Another program is the Fedeal Housing Administration's Title 1 FHA loan program. Resources: * "Rehab a Home With HUD's 203(K)" brochure, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 7th and D streets S.W., Washington, DC 20410.

Q:	Do you have to buy HUD homes through a realty agent?
A:	You can only purchase a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development property through a licensed real estate broker. HUD will pay the broker's commission up to 6 percent of the sales price.

Q:	Rules for a FHA Loan?
A:	The U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development offers a variety of loan insurance programs through the Federal Housing Administration, which requires approximately 3 to 4 percent cash down. There are no income requirements to qualify for a FHA mortgage. Other advantages are that FHA loans do not contain prepayment penalties and in some cases they are assumable by qualified purchasers. FHA loan limits vary, depending on the county where the property is located. FHA loans are originated and serviced by private lenders. FHA does not lend money. The mortgage is made by a bank, savings and loan, mortgage company or other FHA-approved lender. In addition, FHA does not set the rates and points. The lender determines these, so it is best to shop around by calling several FHA-approved lenders.

Q:	Are FHA loans assumable?
A:	Lenders will only permit those loans that have a "subject to transfer" clause to be taken over through a formal assumption process. Look to your loan agreement for specific terms. In addition, you should candidly discuss any risks with your lender, and possibly consult an attorney before signing the final agreement.

Suggestions and resources for how and why home improvements can increase the value of your property.

Q:	What is a lease option?
A:	When a renter signs a lease with an option to purchase the property for a specific price within a certain time frame, that is called a lease option. In most lease-option situations, a portion of the rent is applied to a future down payment. Lease options are most popular among buyers who don't have enough funds for a down payment and closing costs.

Q:	Where do I get information on lease options?
A:	For information on lease options, "How Lease Options Benefit Realty Buyers, Sellers, Agents and Investors" is available for from Tribune Media Services, 435 N Michigan #1500, Chicago IL 60611. 1-800-245-6536,or "Publication House", Burlingram CA. 1-800-736-1736

Q:	How do lease options work and what are the benefits?
A:	Most lease-option agreements specify that a portion of the rent on the property in question is applied toward the purchase if the option is exercised. This is referred to as rent credit. Institutional lenders accept rent credits as part of the down payment if rental payments exceed the market rent and if a valid lease-purchase agreement is in effect, a copy of which must be attached to the loan application. For sellers, lease options give them several advantages, especially in a slow market. These include a monthly rent higher than market rent, top-market value for the property and tax-free use of the option consideration until the option expires or is exercised. Also, the renter is more likely to treat the property like an owner, tax-free use of option consideration until the option expires or is exercised. Lease-options should be read carefully for details on transferring the option and other important concerns. For more information, get a copy of "How Lease- Options Benefit Realty Buyers, Sellers, Agents and Investors," available for $4 from Tribune Media Services, 64 E. Concord St., Orlando, FL 32801.

Q:

Do condos have to be made accessible to the disabled?

A:

The 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act does not require strictly residential apartments and single-family homes to be made accessible. But all new construction of public accommodations or commercial projects (such as a government building or a shopping mall) must be accessible. New multi-family construction also falls into this category.

In all states, the Federal Fair Housing Act provides protection against discrimination for people with physical or mental disabilities. Discrimination includes the refusal to make reasonable modifications to buildings that aren't accessible to the disabled.

Two educational brochures, "Housing Rights" and "Discrimination is Against the Law," are available through the Department of Fair Employment and Housing by calling (800) 884-1684.

Q:

Can condos ban smoking?

A:

A homeowners association's board of directors can restrict smoking if it applies to indoor common spaces such as hallways or recreation rooms. Outdoor spaces are a different story, say legal experts. Any restriction would probably hinge on local laws (i.e. if a city banned smoking outdoors, a homeowners association probably could restrict smoking in its outdoor spaces).

Typical covenants, codes and restrictions (CC&Rs), which govern condo associations, give the board authority to make and enforce reasonable rules for the use of common property. But that would not apply to interior spaces owned by smokers themselves. Resources:
* Common-interest development brochure available free from California Department of Real Estate, Book Orders, P.O. Box 187006, Sacramento, CA 95818-7006; (916) 227-0938.
* Various Internet sites specializing in common-interest developments, such as those operated by the Community Associations Institute and CIDNetworks.

Q:

Can a condo association ban nudity?

A:

Could you sunbathe in the nude on your own balcony? Not necessarily. In a condominium development, a balcony is not considered private property but common property assigned to your exclusive use but a common area nontheless.

Covenants, codes and restrictions (CC&Rs) usually spell out what activities can and cannot be conducted on common property. Some associations prevent people from barbecuing on their balconies or hanging large plants from the railings. However, the larger issue of regulating personal conduct is not so clear-cut. It literally depends on what side of the fence you're on.

If the sunbather can be seen from a public vantage point -- not by someone who must climb a tree or peer through binoculars -- then the rule probably would be considered reasonable, say legal experts.

Incidentally, there are places where nudity is tolerated but again, only out of public view.

Q:

Are condos a good investment?

A:

Condominiums have held their value as an investment despite economic downturns and problems with some associations. In fact, condos have appreciated more in the last few years than when they first came on the scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s, experts say.

While there are lots of reports about homeowners association disputes and construction-defect problems, the industry has worked hard to turn its image around. Elected volunteers who serve on association boards are better trained at handling complex budget and legal issues, for example, while many boards go to great lengths to avoid the kind of protracted and expensive litigation that has hurt resale value in the past.

Meanwhile, changing demographics are making condominiums more attractive investments for single home buyers, empty nesters and first-time buyers in expensive markets.

Q:

What's a house worth?

A:

A home is worth what someone will pay for it. Everything else is an estimate of value. To determine a property's value, most people turn to either an appraisal or a comparative market analysis.

An appraisal is a certified appraiser's estimate amenities, energy efficiency, the quality of the of the value of a home at a given point in time. To make their determination, appraisers consider square footage, construction quality, design, floor plan, neighborhood and availability of transportation, shopping and schools. Appraisers also take lot size, topography, view and landscaping into account.

A comparative market analysis is an informal estimate of market value, based on comparable sales in the neighborhood, performed by a real estate agent or broker. You can do your own cost comparison by looking up recent sales of comparable properties in public records. These records are available at local recorder's or assessor's offices, through private companies or on the Internet.

Other resources include:

* The Home Sales Line allows people to use their telephones to find the exact selling price of houses anywhere in the state 24 hours a day. Call 1-800-585-HOME.
* Dataquick Information Systems tracks home sales statewide and prepares reports for specific properties. Call 1-800-999-0152.
* Go to Web sites such as http://www.homeshark.com and http://www.dataquick.com.

Q:

Where do I get information on condo association laws?

A:

Resources:
* "The Condominium Bluebook" by Branden E. Bickel, B&B Publications, San Francisco, CA; 1994; call (415) 433-1233).
* Community Associations Institute, Alexandria, VA; (703) 548-8600.

Q:

Where do I get information on condos?

A:

The major interest group for condominium projects and other so-called common-intereset developments is the nonprofit Community Associations Institute,1630 Duke St., Alexandria, VA 22314; (703) 548-8600. Also, check the Internet where CAI operates an informative site as does CIDNetworks.

Q:

How are fees and assessments figured in a homeowners association?

A:

Homeowners association fees are considered personal living expenses and are not tax-deductible. If, however, an association has a special assessment to make one or more capital improvements, condo owners may be able to add the expense to their cost basis. Cost basis is a term for the money an owner spends for permanent improvements throughout their time in the home and is used to reduce eventual capital gains taxes when the property is sold. For example, if the association puts a new roof on a building, the expense could be considered part of a condo owner's cost basis only if they lived directly underneath it. Overall improvements to common areas, such as the installation of a swimming pool, need to be considered on a case-by-case basis but most can be included in the cost basis of any owner who can show their home directly benefits from the work.

To find out more about how the IRS views condo association fees, look to IRS Publication 17, "Your Federal Income Tax," which includes a section on condos. Order a free copy by calling (800) TAX-FORM.

Q:

Can a condo association ban pets?

A:

A homeowners association can both enact and enforce such pet restrictions. As the following case illustrates, it important to read a development's covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) before you buy into it. Pet restrictions sometimes appear there. Also, if you have talked to other owners, you will know whether or not there is tolerance for pets.

In the case of Nahrstedt v. Lakeside Village Condominium Association, Natore Nahrstedt, a resident of Lakeside Village Condominiums believed it was reasonable for her to keep three cats even though her deed restrictions read, "No animals (which shall mean dogs and cats), livestock, reptiles or poultry shall be kept in any unit."

Nahrstedt filed suit after the board assessed fines of $500 a month against her. The California Supreme Court ruled in favor of the association.

Real estate tax resources and hints: what is deductible, how are vacation homes taxed, what is capital gains, and more.

Frequently asked questions about building permits and zoning: what are building codes, when do I need a building permit, and more.

Frequently asked questions about home inspectors: what is a home inspection, when do I need one, how do I find a home inspector, and more.

Q:	How can I save on closing costs?
A:	Studies show that the closing costs, which can average 2 to 3 percent of a total home purchase price, are often more costly than many buyers expect. But there are some ways to save: * Negotiate with the seller to pay all or part of the closing costs. The lender must agree to this as well as the seller. * Get a no-point loan. The trade-off is a higher interest rate on the loan and many of these loans have prepayment penalties. But buyers who are short on cash and can qualify for a higher interest rate may find a no-point loan will significantly cut their closing costs. * Get a no-fee loan. Usually, though, these fees are wrapped into a higher interest rate though it will save you on the amount of cash you need upfront. * Get seller financing. This kind of arrangement usually does not entail traditional loan fees or charges. * Rent the property in which you are interested with an option to buy. That will give you more time to save for the upfront cash needed for the actual purchase. * Shop around for the best loan deal. Each direct lender and each mortgage brokerage has their own fee structure. Call around before submitting your final loan application.

Q:	Where do I get information about closing costs?
A:	For more on closing costs, ask for the "Consumer?s Guide to Mortgage Settlement Costs," Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Public Information Department, P.O. Box 7702, San Francisco, CA 94120 or call (415) 974-2163.

Q:	What are closing costs?
A:	Closing costs are the fees for services, taxes or special interest charges that surround the purchase of a home. They include upfront loan points, title insurance, escrow or closing day charges, document fees, prepaid interest and property taxes. Unless, these charges are rolled into the loan, they must be paid when the home is closed.

Q:	Who pays the closing costs?
A:	Closing costs are either paid by the home seller or home buyer. It often depends on local custom and what the buyer or seller negotiates.

Q:	Why do I need a title report?
A:	As much as you as a buyer may want to believe that the home you have found is perfect, a clear title report ensures there are no liens placed against the prior owners or any documents that will restrict your use of the property. A preliminary title report provides you with an opportunity to review any impediment that would prevent clear title from passing to you. When reading a preliminary report, it is important to check the extent of your ownership rights or interest. The most common form of interest is "fee simple" or "fee," which is the highest type of interest an owner can have in land. Liens, restrictions and interests of others excluded from title coverage will be listed numerically as exceptions in the report. You also may have to consider interests of any third parties, such as easements granted by prior owners that limit use of the property. Some buyers attempt to clear these unwanted items prior to purchase. A list of standard exceptions and exclusions not covered by the title insurance policy may be attached. This section includes items the buyer may want to investigate further, such as any laws governing building and zoning.

Frequently asked questions about finding the right property: rent verses buy, adding on verses buying new, real estate acronyms, and more.

Q:	Where are fixer-uppers found?
A:	You can find distressed properties or fixer-uppers in most communities, even wealthier neighborhoods. A distressed property is one that has been poorly maintained and has a lower market value than other houses in the immediate area. Ascertaining whether the property you're interested in is a wise investment takes some work. You need to figure what the average house in a given area sells for, as well as what the most desirable houses in that area are like and what they cost. Some experts suggest that buyers who take this route try to find a "cosmetic fixer" that can be completely refurbished with paint, wallpaper, new floor and window coverings, landscaping and new appliances. You should avoid run-down houses that need major structural repairs. A house price that looks too good to be true probably is. A smart buyer will find out why before buying it. The basic strategy for a fixer is to find the least desirable house in the most desirable neighborhood, and then decide if the expenses needed to bring the value of that property up to its full potential market value are within one's rehab budget.

Q:	Are there programs for fixer-uppers?
A:	If you need home loan to buy a "fixer-upper" and remodel it, look at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Section 203(K) loan program. The program is designed to facilitate major structural rehabilitation of houses with one to four units that are more than one year old. Condominiums are not eligible. A 203(K) loan is usually done as a combination loan to purchase a "fixer-upper" property "as is" and rehabilitate it, or to refinance a temporary loan to buy the property and do the rehabilitation. It can also be done as a rehabilitation-only loan. Investors must put 15 percent down while owner-occupants are required to come up with only 3 to 5 percent. HUD requires that a minimum of $5,000 be spent on improvements. Two appraisals are required. Plans and specifications for the proposed work must be submitted for architectural review and cost estimation. Mortgage proceeds are advanced periodically during the rehabilitation period to finance the construction costs.

Q:	What kind of return is there on remodeling jobs?
A:	Remodeling magazine produces an annual "Cost vs. Value Report'' that answers just that question. The most important point to remember is that remodeling a home not only improves its livability for you but its curb appeal with a potential buyer down the road. Most recently, the highest remodeling paybacks have come from updating kitchens and baths, home-office additions and extra amenities in older homes. While home offices are a relatively new remodeling trend, for example, you could expect to recoup 58 percent of the cost of adding a home office, according to the survey.

Q:	Are there gov't programs for rehab?
A:	The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Section 203 (K) rehabilitation loan program is designed to facilitate major structural rehabilitation of houses with one to four units that are more than one year old. Condominiums are not eligible. The 203(K) loan is usually done as a combination loan to purchase a fixer-upper property "as is" and rehabilitate it, or to refinance a temporary loan to buy the property and do the rehabilitation. It can also be done as a rehabilitation-only loan. Plans and specifications for the proposed work must be submitted for architectural review and cost estimation. Mortgage proceeds are advanced periodically during the rehabilitation period to finance the construction costs. For a list of participating lenders, call HUD at (202) 708-2720. If you are a veteran, loans from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also can be used to buy a home, build a home, improve a home or to refinance an existing loan. VA loans frequently offer lower interest rates than ordinarily available with other kinds of loans. To qualify for a loan, the first step is to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility. Another program is the Federal Housing Administration's Title 1 FHA loan program. Resources: * "Rehab a Home With HUD's 203(K)" brochure, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 7th and D streets S.W., Washington, DC 20410.

Q:	What are some resources for info on home improvements?
A:	If you're getting ready to embark on a home improvement project involving contracting help, "Ready, Set, Build: A Consumer's Guide to Home Improvement Planning Contracts" lays out a road map for selecting the right contractor, obtaining competitive bids up to what to include in a contract. There also is information on consumer rights, liens and financing. The book is available for $9.95 through Consumer Press and Women's Publications, Inc., Dept. SR01, 13326 Southwest 28th St., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33330-1102; (954) 370-9153. Resources: * Profiting From Real Estate Rehab, Sandra M. Brassfield, John Wiley & Sons Inc., New York; 1992. * Remodeling magazine's annual "Cost vs. Value Report", available for a nominal fee from the magazine; call (202) 736-3447 to order a copy.

Q:	Are there any special tax breaks for historic rehab?
A:	Qualified rehabilitated buildings and certified historic structures currently enjoy a 20 percent investment tax credit for qualified rehabilitation expenses. A historic structure is one listed in the National Register of Historic Places or so designated by an appropriate state or local historic district also certified by the government. The tax code does not allow deductions for the demolition or significant alternation of a historic structure. Resources: * National Trust for Historic Preservation, Washington, D.C.; (202) 588-6000.

Q:	What are some guidelines to follow when trying to find a contractor?
A:	While hiring contractors recommended by friends is usually a safe route, never hire a construction professional without first checking him or her out first. If your state has a licensing board for contractors, call to find out if there are any outstanding complaints against that license holder. Also, call your local Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints on file. If you are satisfied with the answers you find there, interview the contractor candidates. Ask what kind of worker's compensation insurance they carry and get policy and insurance company phone numbers so you can verify the information. If they are not covered, you could be liable for any work-related injury incurred during the project. Also be sure that the contractor has an umbrella general liability policy. If they pass the insurance hurdle, next check some of their references. A good contractor will be happy to provide as many as you want. Finally, don't let yourself be rushed into making a decision no matter how competitive the market may seem. Also, never pay a deposit to a contractor at the first meeting. You may end up losing your money.

Q:	Are fixers a good idea in bad areas?
A:	Distressed properties or fixer-uppers are everywhere, even in wealthier neighborhoods. Such properties are poorly maintained and have a lower market value than other houses in the neighborhood. Many experts recommend that buyers find the least desirable house in the best neighborhood and then decide if the expenses needed to bring the value of that property up to its full potential market value are within one's budget. Most experts say inexperienced buyers should avoid run-down houses that need major structural repairs and instead look for properties that only require cosmetic fixes.

Frequently asked questions on buying foreclosed properties: what type of foreclosures are there, how do you get financing for a foreclosure, how do you find foreclosures, and more.

Q:	Is a low offer a good idea?
A:	While your low offer in a normal market might be rejected immediately, in a buyer's market a motivated seller will either accept or make a counteroffer. Full-price offers or above are more likely to be accepted by the seller. But there are other considerations involved: * Is the offer contingent upon anything, such as the sale of the buyer's current house? If so, a low offer, even at full price, may not be as attractive as an offer without that condition. * Is the offer made on the house as is, or does the buyer want the seller to make some repairs or lower the price instead? * Is the offer all cash, meaning the buyer has waived the financing contingency? If so, then an offer at less than the asking price may be more attractive to the seller than a full-price offer with a financing contingency.

Q:	What contingencies should be put in an offer?
A:	Most offers include two standard contingencies: a financing contingency, which makes the sale dependent on the buyers' ability to obtain a loan commitment from a lender, and an inspection contingency, which allows buyers to have professionals inspect the property to their satisfaction. A buyer could forfeit his or her deposit under certain circumstances, such as backing out of the deal for a reason not stipulated in the contract. The purchase contract must include the seller’s responsibilities, such things as passing clear title, maintaining the property in its present condition until closing and making any agreed-upon repairs to the property.

Q:	Whose obligation is it to disclose pertinent information about a property?
A:	Obligations to disclose information about a property vary from state to state. Under the strictest laws, the seller and the seller’s broker, if there is one, are required to disclose all facts materially affecting the value or desirability of the property which are known or accessible only to him. Items sellers often disclose include: homeowners association dues; whether or not work done on the house meets local building codes and permits requirements; the presence of any neighborhood nuisances or noises which a prospective buyer might not notice, such as a dog that barks every night or poor TV reception; any death within three years on the property and any restrictions on the use of the property, such as zoning ordinances or association rules. It is wise to check your state's disclosure rules prior to a home purchase.

Q:	How do you find out the value of a troubled property?
A:	Buyers considering a foreclosure property should obtain as much information as possible from the lender about the range of bids being sought. It also is important to examine the property. If you are unable to get into a foreclosure property, check with surrounding neighbors about the property's condition. It also is possible to do your own cost comparison through researching comparable properties recorded at local county recorder's and assessor's offices, or through Internet sites specializing in property records.

Q:	Are low-ball offers advisable?
A:	A low-ball offer is a term used to describe an offer on a house that is substantially less than the asking price. While any offer can be presented, a low-ball offer can sour a prospective sale and discourage the seller from negotiating at all. Unless the house is very overpriced, the offer will probably be rejected. You should always do your homework about comparable prices in the neighborhood before making an y offer. It also pays to know something about the seller's motivation. A lower price with a speedy escrow, for example, may motivate a seller who must move, has another house under contract or must sell quickly for other reasons.

Q:	What is the difference between list and sales prices?
A:	The list price is the price tag put on a house in a real estate listing; it usually is only an estimate of what the seller would like to get for the property. The sales price is the amount a property actually sells for. It may be the same as the listing price, or higher or lower, depending on how accurately the property was originally priced and on market conditions. A seller may need to adjust the listing price if there have been no offers within the first few months of the property's listing period.

Q:	Can you buy homes below market?
A:	While a typical buyer may look at five to 10 homes before making an offer, an investor who make bargain buys usually go through many more. Most experts agree it takes a lot of determination to find a real "bargain." There are a number of ways to buy a bargain property: Buy a fixer-upper in a transitional neighborhood, improve it and keep it or resell at a higher price. Buy a foreclosure property (after doing your research carefully). * Buy a house due to be torn down and move it to a new lot. * Buy a partial interest in a piece of real estate, such as part of a tenants-in-common partnership. * Buy a leftover house in a new-home development.

Q:	Who gets the furnishings when a home is sold?
A:	Fixtures, any kind of personal property that is permanently attached to a house (such as drapery rods, built-in bookcases, tacked-down carpeting or a furnace), automatically stay with the house unless specified otherwise in the sales contract. But you can consider anything that is not nailed down negotiable. This most often involves appliances that are not built in (washer, dryer, refrigerator, for example), although some sellers will be interested in negotiating for other items, such as a piano.

Q:	What are some tips on negotiation?
A:	The more you know about a seller's motivation, the stronger a negotiating position you are in. For example, seller who must move quickly due to a job transfer may be amenable to a lower price with a speedy escrow. Other so-called "motivated sellers" include people going through a divorce or who have already purchased another home. Remember, that the listing price is what the seller would like to receive but is not necessarily what they will settle for. Before making an offer, check the recent sales prices of comparable homes in the neighborhood to see how the seller's asking price stacks up. Some experts discourage making deliberate low-ball offers. While such an offer can be presented, it can also sour the sale and discourage the seller from negotiating at all.

Q:	What are the standard contingencies?
A:	Most offers include two standard contingencies: a financing contingency, which makes the sale dependent on the buyers' ability to obtain a loan commitment from a lender, and an inspection contingency, which allows buyers to have professionals inspect the property to their satisfaction. A buyer could forfeit his or her deposit under certain circumstances, such as backing out of the deal for a reason not stipulated in the contract. The purchase contract must include the seller’s responsibilities, such things as passing clear title, maintaining the property in its present condition until closing and making any agreed-upon repairs to the property.

Q:	What is the difference between list price, sales price and appraised value?
A:	The list price is a seller's advertised price, a figure that usually is only a rough estimate of what the seller wants to get. Sellers can price high, low or close to what they hope to get. To judge whether the list price is a fair one, be sure to consult comparable sales prices in the area. The sales price is the amount of money you as a buyer would pay for a property. The appraisal value is a certified appraiser's estimate of the worth of a property, and is based on comparable sales, the condition of the property and numerous other factors.

Q:	Where do I get information about being a landlord?
A:	If you are a landlord and have questions, contact: * National Multi-Housing Council, 1850 M Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20036; call (202) 659-3381. * National Apartment Association, 21 N. Union St., Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314; (703) 518-6141.

Q:	Where do I get information on lease options?
A:	For information on lease options, "How Lease Options Benefit Realty Buyers, Sellers, Agents and Investors" is available for from Tribune Media Services, 435 N Michigan #1500, Chicago IL 60611. 1-800-245-6536,or "Publication House", Burlingram CA. 1-800-736-1736

Q:	Where do I get information about finding a real estate attorney?
A:	To find a real estate attorney, contact your local bar association, which may offer local referral services. You may also ask friends or your real estate agent for their recommendations. When you have several names, call each to find out about fees and their level of experience.

Q:	Where can I get information on writing leases?
A:	Landlords can turn to several good books for legal and management advice. Some contain sample forms for the tenant's move-in condition checklist, owner's notice of intent to enter an occupied unit and warning notices, for example. Resources: * "The Landlord's Troubleshooter," Robert Irwin, Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1994. * "The Landlord's Law Book: Rights & Responsibilities," David Brown and Ralph Warner, Nolo Press, Berkeley, Calif.; 1991.

Q:	Where do I get information about being a landlord?
A:	If you are a landlord and have questions, contact: * National Multi-Housing Council, 1850 M Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20036; call (202) 659-3381. * National Apartment Association, 21 N. Union St., Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314; (703) 518-6141.

Q:	What is the Community Home Buyers program?
A:	The Community Home Buyers loan program is sponsored by the Federal National Mortgage Association, commonly referred to as Fannie Mae, and administered through participating direct lenders. Fannie Mae's Community Home Buyers program has an income cap of 120 percent of the area's median income. In addition, the borrower must attend a seminar on home ownership and the home buying process. It is not geared only for first-time home buyers, unlike many of the other low-down -payment programs on the market. This loan program allows for 97 percent financing. The borrower may put down as little as 3 percent of his or her own money, with the remaining 2 percent coming in the form of a family gift or loan from a government or nonprofit agency. For more information, call Fannie Mae at (800)732-6643.

Q:	How can Fannie Mae help a home buyer?
A:	Fannie Mae's Community Home Buyers Program allows first-time buyers with little cash to obtain 95 percent financing. Participants may put down as little as 3 percent of their own money, with the remainder permitted in the form of a gift from family members, a government program or nonprofit agency. Mortgage insurance is required on all loans above 80 percent loan-to-value ratio when borrowers do not use their own funds for at least 5 percent down. The program is administered through participating lenders. There are income limits in different states. However, the income restriction is waived when borrowers participate in the Fannie Neighbors program. Fannie Neighbors also has lower income requirements for borrowers who want to buy in designated central cities. People who are borrowing in either of these programs must attend a seminar on home ownership and the home buying process. For a list of participating lenders, call Fannie Mae at (800) 732-6643.

Q:	Who is Fannie Mae?
A:	Fannie Mae is a congressionally chartered secondary-mortgage market company that buys loans from private lenders. Because the firm is so big and has been involved in purchasing packages of loans from lenders for 25 years, it has enormous influence on the mortgage market. For more information, call Fannie Mae at (800) 732-6643.

Q:	Are there Fannie Mae programs for inner cities?
A:	Home buyers in urban neighborhoods can take advantage of the secondary mortgage market institution's Fannie Neighbors Program. This mortgage plan was created to increase homeownership and promote revitalization in central cities as well as minority low and moderate income areas. Borrowers need less income to qualify for a mortgage and less cash for closing than with standard mortgages. The program includes mortgages to buy or refinance a home. Fannie Neighbors has no income limit for residents who are purchasing a home within designated central cities (if not the largest city in a metropolitan area, cities must have populations of 250,000 or more.) Borrowers must attend a seminar on home ownership and the home buying process. For a list of participating lenders, call Fannie Mae at (800) 732-6643.

Q:	What is Fannie Mae's low-down program?
A:	Fannie Mae is expanding the availability of low-down-payment loans in an effort to help more people nationwide qualify for a mortgage. Two new programs will help potential buyers overcome two of the most common obstacles to home ownership, low savings and a modest income. To address many first-time buyers' struggles to save the down payment, Fannie Mae developed Fannie 97. The program provides 97 percent financing on a fixed-rate mortgage with either a 25- or 30-year loan term through Fannie Mae's Community Home Buyers Program. Fannie Mae's new Start-Up Mortgage will assist buyers with a 5 percent down payment who are at any income level. Yet applicants do not need as much income to qualify and less cash for closing than with traditional mortgages. Borrowers will receive a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage with a first-year monthly payment that is lower than the standard fixed-rate loan. Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae's counterpart, also offers low-down-payment loan programs.

Facade The part of a building facing the street or a courtyard.

Fair Credit Billing Act A federal law that governs credit and charge card billing errors. If a credit or charge card company violates any provision, consumers can sue to recover damages.

Fair Credit Reporting Act. A federal law passed in 1971 that regulates the activity of credit bureaus. It is designed to prevent inaccurate or obsolete information from staying in a consumer's credit file and requires credit bureaus to have reasonable procedures for gathering, maintaining and disseminating credit information. The act also requires credit bureaus to show a consumer their credit file if the consumer presents proper identification, although the bureau reserves the right to charge a fee for doing so.

Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. A federal law passed in 1977 which outlaws debtor harassment and other types of collection practices. The act regulates collection agencies, original creditors who set up a separate office to collect debts, and lawyers hired by the creditor to help collect overdue bills. An original creditor--the company or individual that originally granted the credit--is not covered by the act, but may be covered by similar measures approved by state governments.

Fair Housing Act Landmark federal law passed in 1965 and amended in 1988 that makes it illegal to deny rent or refuse to sell to anyone based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin. The 1988 amendment expanded the protections to include family status and disability.

Fannie Mae The official name of the Federal National Mortgage Association, it is a congressionally chartered, shareholder-owned company that buys mortgages from lenders and resells them as securities on the secondary mortgage market.

Farmer's Home Administration A U.S. Department of Agriculture agency that provides credit to farmers and rural residents.

Fascia A board that connects the ends of the roof rafters and provides a surface to support gutters.

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, law The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, commonly known as Freddie Mac. The company buys mortgages from lending institutions, pools them with other loans and then sells shares to investors.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) This government agency operates a variety of home-loan programs. Its most popular is the Sec. 203(b), program, which provides low-rate mortgages to buyers who make a down payment as small as 3 percent.

Federal National Mortgage Association Now officially dubbed Fannie Mae, this federally chartered agency buys mortgages from lending institutions, pools them with other loans and sells shares to investors.

Federal Reserve Board A group of economists and other experts who set the nation's monetary policy. Its chief tool to control inflation is the power to control interest rates.

Federal Trade Commission The government agency responsible for regulating a variety of companies and industries, from credit bureaus and collection agencies to timeshare operators and certain types of creditors. National headquarters: Sixth and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20580. Phone: (202) 326-2222.

Fee simple This type of ownership is the maximum interest a person can have in a piece of real estate. It entitles the owner to use the property in any manner they see fit, in accordance with state and local laws.

Fee simple defeasible The owner of the property holds a fee simple title contingent upon certain conditions.

Federal style The all-American home architecture style that evolved after the Revolutionary War. Details include bigger windows and a front doorway surrounded by glass and topped with an arched window.

FHA loans Mortgages that are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. The FHA's 203(b) loan program provides low-rate mortgages to buyers who make a down payment as small as 3 percent. The agency also operates loan plans for investors and purchasers of rural property.

Feng shui An ancient Chinese belief that the physical characteristics of a house and the positioning of the home will affect the fortunes of the owner.

Fiduciary duty The relationship of trust that buyers and sellers expect from a real estate agent. The term also applies to legal and business relationships.

Field changes Modifications made on the construction site that do not match blueprints.

Fill dirt Soil brought in to solidify a finished foundation.

Filled land An area where the ground has been raised by adding dirt, gravel or other fill material.

Finder's fee A fee in any amount that is paid to someone.

Finish grade A finish that prepares a lot for landscaping.

Fire wall A buffer composed of fire-resistant material.

Firm commitment A promise made by a lender when it agrees to loan money for the purchase of property.

First mortgage The primary mortgage on a property that has priority over all other voluntary liens.

Fixed installment The monthly payment on a home loan.

Fixed-rate mortgage A home loan with an interest rate that will remain at a specific rate for the term of the loan. About 75 percent of all home mortgages have fixed rates.

Fixed time The specific weeks in a year an owner of a timeshare arrangement has access to accommodations.

Fixer-upper A house that needs refurbishment or remodeling It usually sells at a below-market price.

Fixture Personal property permanently attached to a house, such as drapery rods, toilets, built-in bookcases or a furnace.

Flashing Metal strips placed around chimneys, skylights, vents, windows, doors, beneath shingles and along seams in the roof to prevent water seepage.

Flat fee A set fee charged by a broker instead of a commission.

Flat roof A roof with a level surface.

Floor area ratio The calculation of the floor area of all homes or buildings in a project. It is used in the planning and development of a site.

Float floor drain A drain that diverts water from the basement to a collection area. Water is then removed with a sump pump.

Floating wall Walls built to withstand movement in the basement floor.

Flood insurance Hazard coverage that is required in designated flood areas.

Flood plain Flat, flood-prone areas located along waterways.

Florida rooms Enclosed porches built on the side or back of a home.

Footings Concrete foundations that support a structure.

Forbearance A course of action a lender may pursue to delay foreclosure or legal action against a delinquent borrower.

Foreclosure The legal process reserved by a lender to terminate the borrower's interest in a property after a loan has been defaulted. When the process is completed, the lender may sell the property and keep the proceeds to satisfy its mortgage and any legal costs. Any excess proceeds may be used to satisfy other liens or be returned to the borrower.

Forfeiture The relinquishing of property rights by a delinquent borrower.

For Sale By Owner (FSBO) The owner acts as the agent to avoid paying a sales commission.

Foundation The support structure of a house.

Foyer The entrance hall to a home or building.

Framing The construction of the skeletal framework of a house.

Freddie Mac The common name for the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, a congressionally chartered institution that buys mortgages from lenders and resells them as securities on the secondary mortgage market.

Free-market lots Owners of these types of lots may hire any builder to construct their home.

French doors Two adjoining doors inlaid with glass that open from the middle.

Frontage The portion of property that borders a roadway or body of water.

Fully amortized adjustable-rate mortgage A mortgage that amortizes, or pays down, the balance of a loan.

Furnace An enclosed heating device powered by coal, oil, propane or natural gas.

Fuse A device that allows power to be channeled into a home.

Provide investors and homebuyers with the best and most accurate foreclosure information nationwide. Provides daily data updates along with complete tax roll information. All information is acquired directly from the foreclosing lenders and government agencies,including: HUD, VA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, First Preston, Premier Asset Services, Citibank, Golden Feather, Bank of America, Citiwest and many more.

Match.com brings people together. As a proven leader in online dating services, Match.com offers millions of profiles for millions of possibilities to meet your match. Arranging hundreds of thousands of relationships for its members, in 2003 alone, Match.Com calculates that more than 200,000 members found the person they were seeking on the site.

Register. Search property listings. Get your home's value with a market analysis. Compare realtors & properties anonymously.

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As you may already know, Google offers site owners the opportunity to display Google AdWords for a piece of the pay-per-click revenue generated whenever a site visitor clicks on an AdWords ad. Recently, many SEOs have theorized that Google gives ranking preferences to participating AdSense sites within Google's organic search results. So, we decided to test out that theory as well as take a look at how Yahoo ranks sites that display the competing Google AdWords. The results were surprising!

If you're getting ready to embark on a home improvement project There are countless resources available to help you...

To help children prepare adequately for tests (whether teacher-made or standardized), you can do several things to provide support and create a positive test-taking experience.

Get a FREE Experian Credit Report and PLUS Score when you register for a FREE 30-day trial membership! Also benefit from daily monitoring of your credit report to alert you of potential fraudulent activity, unlimited access to your Experian Credit Report and PLUS Score with paid membership, interactive score simulator to show you what factors most affect your credit score, and secure, online access and your own personalized page to give you a snapshot of your credit and score trends.

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July 07, 2004 -- Alan Shams just bought a 7,700-square-foot lakefront Las Vegas vacation home with five bedrooms, a pool and a waterfall in the backyard. But the best part of all was the price: At $1 million, the house cost $600,000 less than the previous owner paid three years ago, in one of the country's hottest real-estate markets.

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