Any civil public officer. Most commonly used to designate an inferior judicial officer, such as a justice of the peace, police justice, etc.

Court having jurisdiction over minor matters (small claims), and usually not a court of record.

A synthetic floor, floated approximately 1 1/2 inches thick, over a concrete floor. Composed of powdered magnesite, magnesium- chloride solution and fillers. Also used for outside steps in areas where cold is not severe.

See: Multifamily Affordable Housing

A designation conferred by the Appraisal Institute upon member appraisers who are qualified to appraise all types of property as well as give real estate investment advice. See also: RM; SRA; SREA; SRPA.

A large conduit or pipe, carrying electricity, sewage, gas, etc., to or from branch lines.

The principal circuit which feeds electric current into smaller circuits (branches) for distribution where needed.

Keeping a property in condition to efficiently serve its intended purpose.

As applied to condominiums and planned developments, the amount charged each unit owner to maintain the common area. Usually a monthly fee paid as part of the budget.

Money reserved to cover anticipated maintenance costs.

The age at which a person is no longer a minor, and is legally entitled to contract and enjoy civic rights, such as voting.

One who executes (signs) as the maker (borrower) of a note.

(1) A shaded walkway or promenade. Modernly, the pedestrian area of a shopping center. May be open or enclosed. (2) A strip between two travelways; may be landscaped or paved. Also called a median strip.

See: Property Management.

See: Property Management Agreement.

The amount paid for property management or the estimated value of such management if owner managed or the building is not yet built.

Latin for “we command”. A writ issued by a superior court ordering an inferior court, corporation, or individual, to do or refrain from doing specific acts. The main importance to real estate is that it is a writ commanding a governmental body to do something, such as issue a building permit.

A four sided roof, each side having two separate slopes of different degree; the lower slope is at a much steeper angle than the upper slope.

(1) The lintel of a fireplace opening, constructed by a post and lintel method. May be of stone, a heavy beam, or other material of strength. (2) A decorative shelf above a fireplace opening, not load- bearing.

A structure built in a factory and assembled at the site. The term is also used to describe a mobile home. See also: Stick Built Home. A manufactured home is built using more metal and less wood and brick than a stick built home. Manufactured homes are less expensive than comparable stick built structures.

A lot upon which construction of a building may begin. Having all off-site improvements and approvals of government agencies.