|
Assumption The agreement between buyer and seller where the buyer takes over the payments on an existing mortgage from the seller. Assuming a loan can usually save the buyer money since this is an existing mortgage debt, unlike a new mortgage where closing cost and new, probably higher, market-rate interest charges will apply. | |
Federal Housing Administration (FHA) An agency of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It insures residential mortgage loans made by private lenders. FHA also sets standards for underwriting mortgages. | |
Mortgage A conditional conveyance of property as security for the payment of a debt or the fulfillment of some obligation. Upon payment of the debt or performance of the obligation the mortgage becomes void. | |
Title Search An examination performed by a title company of the public records, including court decisions, to disclose facts concerning the ownership of real estate. The title examiner prepares an Abstract and the title agent prepares a Binder but decisions regarding the legal sufficiency of title or questions requiring legal interpretation must be resolved by a licensed attorney at law. | |