Learning the Lexicon Pt I: A Guide to Common Real Estate Terms
When preparing to purchase your first home, you’ll likely come across many words and phrases that are being used in a new context or that might even seem completely foreign. Here at Main Line Homes, we appreciate that specific real-estate terms can be confusing. In fact, it’s precisely why we’ve created this series — as a guide to help people who are looking for a new home to navigate through the new terminology they encounter. Let’s take a look at the first installment of “Learning the Lexicon.”
Appraisal
An appraisal is an estimate of a property’s value based on the written analysis from a qualified appraiser. Before a bank issues a loan, they typically require an appraisal to make sure that the estimated cost of a property exceeds the amount that will be borrowed.
Buyer’s Agent
A buyer’s agent is a real estate agent who specifically represents the interests of people buying homes. If a buyer’s agent completes coursework and proves their experience with representing buyers, they can qualify for accreditation and become an ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative). The ABR accreditation is awarded by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC)
Contingencies
Before a real estate transaction is completed, certain conditions must be met. These include home inspections, financing contingencies, or contingencies that state a buyer must first sell their current home. Generally speaking, the fewer contingencies that are required of a seller, the stronger a buyer’s negotiating position is in terms of getting the best price.
FHA Loan
Loans that are insured by the FHA (Federal Housing Administration) often have attractive finance rates and less strict lending requirements than conventional bank mortgages. For buyers with low credit scores, FHA loans can be very appealing as they also offer smaller down payments. However, they require two types of mortgage insurance: an annual premium and an upfront premium. The monthly premium is included in the monthly mortgage payments.
Home Inspection
In real estate terminology, a home inspection is a professional examination (funded by the buyer) that will evaluate the mechanical and structural condition of a property. This includes the foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems, and roofing. If any issues are identified by the inspector that will be too expensive to resolve, they can be discussed with the seller in detail before proceeding to the final negotiations of a sale.
Keep an eye out for the next part in our “Learning the Lexicon” series to further examine some of the most commonly used real estate terms and what they mean. For additional information or to discuss the property market on the Philadelphia Main Line, contact us today!
Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Homes Luxury Real Estate Agent
Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave
Ardmore, PA 19003
Direct: 610-642-3744
www.mainlinehomes.com
Janis@mainlinehomes.com