Real Estate Blog
Clear, practical guides to the ideas behind the definitions.
14 legal & closing guides, newest first.
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Real Estate Taxes vs Property Taxes: What Is the Difference? Real estate taxes apply to land and structures; property taxes is the broader category that can also include personal property like vehicles and boats.
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Contingent vs Pending: What Is the Difference? Contingent means the seller accepted an offer but conditions remain unmet; pending means contingencies are satisfied and the sale is awaiting closing.
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What Does Contingent Mean in Real Estate? In real estate, contingent means the seller accepted an offer but the sale depends on conditions, called contingencies, being met before closing.
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Grantor vs Grantee: What Is the Difference? The grantor is the party giving away an interest in property; the grantee is the party receiving it. In a normal home sale the seller is the grantor and the…
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Deed vs Title: What Is the Difference? A deed is a physical legal document that transfers ownership. Title is the legal concept of ownership itself — the bundle of rights you hold in the…
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Understanding Mortgages, Down Payments, and Closing Costs A mortgage is a home loan repaid over a set term with interest. Learn how mortgages, down payments, and closing costs of about 2 to 5 percent work together.