Real Estate Terms and Definitions

Deed-in-lieu To avoid foreclosure ("in lieu" of foreclosure), a deed is given to the lender to fulfill the obligation to repay the debt; this process doesn't allow the borrower to remain in the house but helps avoid the costs, time, and effort associated with foreclosure. Lease A lease is an agreement between a landlord, property owner or property manager and a tenant. The agreement covers issues such as rental amount and length of time the lease is in effect. The rental amount may include or exclude property taxes, garbage pickup fees, utility costs, property maintenance and other expenses. Access Control Power of Government to restrict/control a property owner's right to create entrances and exits on a public road. After a roadway is designed, built, and in use, there will be instances in which someone will request permission to create a driveway or entrance onto the roadway. Ginnie Mae Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA); a government-owned corporation overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Ginnie Mae pools FHA-insured and VA-guaranteed loans to back securities for private investment Housing counseling agency Provides counseling and assistance to individuals on a variety of issues, including loan default, fair housing, and homebuying. FHA Federal Housing Administration; established in 1934 to advance homeownership opportunities for all Americans; assists homebuyers by providing mortgage insurance to lenders to cover most losses that may occur when a borrower defaults; this encourages lenders to make loans to borrowers who might not qualify for conventional mortgages. Fair market value The hypothetical price that a willing buyer and seller will agree upon when they are acting freely, carefully, and with complete knowledge of the situation. Freddie Mac Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLM); a federally-chartered corporation that purchases residential mortgages, securitizes them, and sells them to investors; this provides lenders With funds for new homebuyers. Cap A limit, such as that placed on an adjustable rate mortgage, on how much a monthly payment or interest rate can increase or decrease. HUD The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; established in 1965, HUD works to create a decent home and suitable living environment for all Americans; it does this by addressing housing needs, improving and developing American communities, and enforcing fair housing laws.

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	Did You Know?
	Do not ignore the letters from your lender If you are having problems making your payments, call or write to your lender's Loss Mitigation Department without delay. Explain your situation. Be prepared to provide them with financial information, such as your monthly income and expenses. Without this information, they may not be able to help. Stay in your home for now. You may not qualify for assistance if you abandon your property.