Glossary of Real Estate Terms

A form of co-ownership that gives each tenant equal interest and equal rights in the property, including the right of survivorship.

A decision made by a court of law. In judgments that require the repayment of a debt, the court may place a lien against the debtor’s real property as collateral for the judgment’s creditor.

A lien on the property of a debtor resulting from the decree of a court.

A type of foreclosure proceeding used in some states that is handled as a civil lawsuit and conducted entirely under the auspices of a court.

A loan that exceeds mortgage amount limits. Also called a nonconforming loan.