Real Estate Investment Terminology Made Simple

Navigate the world of real estate financing with confidence using our comprehensive glossary of industry terms and definitions.

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Real Estate Investment Glossary

Your guide to common real estate investment and financing terms.

This glossary provides definitions of common terms used in real estate investment and financing. If you have questions about any terms related to your specific loan, please contact your loan officer.
After Repair Value (ARV)

The estimated value of a property after all repairs and renovations are completed.

Bridge Loan

A short-term loan used to "bridge" the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing property or securing of long-term financing.

Capitalization Rate (Cap Rate)

A rate that helps determine the potential return on a real estate investment. Calculated by dividing a property's net operating income by its current market value.

Closing Costs

Fees associated with completing a real estate transaction, such as loan origination fees, appraisal fees, title insurance, and legal fees.

Debt Service

The cash required to make scheduled payments on loan principal and interest.

Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR)

A measure of a property's cash flow relative to its debt obligations. Calculated by dividing net operating income by total debt service.

Fix and Flip

A real estate investment strategy where investors purchase properties in need of repairs, renovate them, and sell them for a profit.

Hard Money Loan

A short-term loan secured by real estate, typically with higher interest rates and lower loan-to-value ratios than conventional loans. Often used by investors who need quick funding.

Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)

The ratio of a loan amount to the value of the asset purchased. Calculated by dividing the loan amount by the appraised property value.

Loan-to-Cost Ratio (LTC)

The ratio of a loan amount to the total cost of a project, including purchase and renovation costs.

Net Operating Income (NOI)

The income generated by a property after deducting operating expenses but before deducting taxes and financing costs.

Points

Fees paid to the lender at closing, typically expressed as a percentage of the loan amount. One point equals 1% of the loan amount.

Rehab

The process of renovating or repairing a property to increase its value or make it habitable.

Return on Investment (ROI)

A performance measure used to evaluate the efficiency of an investment. Calculated by dividing the net profit by the cost of the investment.

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