The rate of earnings from an investment.

The ability of local governments to specify the use of private property in order to control development within designated areas of land. For example, some areas of a neighborhood may be designated only for residential use and others for commercial use such as stores, gas stations, etc.

See: Veterans Administration.

See: adjustable rate mortgage.

The federal agency responsible for the VA loan guarantee program as well as other services for eligible veterans. In general, qualified veterans can apply for home loans with no down payment and a funding fee of 1 percent of the loan amount.

An inspection of a property by the prospective buyer prior to closing on a mortgage.

A document protecting a homebuyer against any and all claims to the property.

A standard document prescribed by the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act containing information for closing which must be supplied to both buyer and seller.

Periodic housing costs for water, electricity, natural gas, heating oil, etc.

See: deed of trust.