See: Straight-Term Mortgage.

Property interests which are not perpetual but liable to terminate, such as a leasehold. Also called “terminable property”.

To end. To cause to stop or end.

An inspection required in certain types of sales of property, to determine if termites are present within a building.

Metal shields at the foundation of a structure or around pipes to prevent the entrance of termites.

Insects, similar to ants, which feed on wood, causing destruction to wooden structures.

The consideration, other than price, in a sale, lease, mortgage, etc. For example: the way the money will be paid, time to take possession, conditions, etc.

Literally “baked earth”. A hard baked, glazed or unglazed, ceramic material used architecturally as a decorative surface for facings and tiles.

Very porous earthenware which can hold a nail and be cut without breaking or shattering.

(1) A common synonym for a balcony in a residence. (2) A series of flat cuts bulldozed into a slope, on which houses are constructed. (3) The natural levels of sloping ground, usually alongside water and indicating the levels of the water over different eras.

A flooring made by embedding small pieces of marble or granite into cement and polishing to a high gloss.

Commonly synonymous with “will”, but technically only the disposition of personal property. See also: Will.

A trust created by a will.

Having written a last will and testament.

One who dies leaving a testament or will.

Clause in a deed or other instrument of conveyance which states that the proper parties are signing the document: “In witness whereof, the parties to these presents have hereunto set their hands and seals”.

A measure of heat equal to one hundred thousand British thermal units (B.T.U.’s).

Heat. Having to do with heat or temperature.

An insulating window of two panes of glass with air between.

The part of a heating or air conditioning system which controls the heating or cooling unit by adjusting to bring ambient air to a pre- set temperature.

A general term which includes anyone not a party to a contract, agreement, instrument, etc. However, statutes or court decisions may limit the definition in certain cases to, for instance, exclude representatives of the parties to a contract, etc.