Legal Document

Affidavit
An affidavit is a written statement made under oath or affirmation before an authorized officer, often used to authenticate facts pertaining to a real estate transaction.
Bill of Sale
A Bill of Sale is a written instrument that serves as a legal document transferring ownership of personal property from a seller to a buyer. It is commonly used for transactions involving items such as furniture and portable appliances.
Certificate of No Defense
A Certificate of No Defense, also known as an Estoppel Certificate, is a legal document used in real estate transactions to certify that the represented facts are accurate and there are no existing claims or disputes. This document plays a crucial role in ensuring transparent and risk-free real estate deals by confirming the status and obligations attached to a property.
Certificate of Satisfaction
A Certificate of Satisfaction is a legal document that indicates the fulfillment of the terms and obligations under a lien, mortgage, or loan agreement. It is often required to clear any encumbrances against a property, signifying that the associated debt or obligation has been satisfied in full.
Certificate of Title
A Certificate of Title is an authoritative opinion rendered by an attorney regarding the status of a property's title based on public records. It ensures the property's title is clear of public record claims.
Correction Deed
A correction deed is a legal document used to amend or correct an error or omission in a previously recorded deed, ensuring the property's title is accurately represented and legally sound.
Declaration
In real estate, a 'Declaration' refers to formal pleadings by a plaintiff as to the facts and circumstances that gave rise to his cause of action. Additionally, it is a legal document used to create a condominium, including vital details about individual units and common elements.
Declaration of Condominium Ownership
A Declaration of Condominium Ownership is a legal document required for the establishment, management, and governance of a condominium association according to relevant state laws. This document outlines the rights and responsibilities of unit owners, common areas, and the owners' association.
Declaration of Trust
A written statement by a trustee acknowledging that the property is held for the benefit of another party.
Deed of Reconveyance
A Deed of Reconveyance is a legal document issued by a mortgage holder indicating that the borrower has met the obligations of the mortgage and that the property title is transferred back to the borrower. It effectively nullifies the lender's claim to the property.
Homestead Declaration
A Homestead Declaration is a legal statement signed by a property owner declaring the property as their principal residence. It can provide benefits such as tax advantages and protection against certain claims.
Instrument
An Instrument is a written legal document created to establish the rights and liabilities of the parties involved. It is essential in the legal and real estate fields to ensure clarity and enforceability of the terms agreed upon by all parties.
Promissory Note
A promissory note is a financial instrument that contains a written promise by one party to pay another party a definite sum of money, either on demand or at a specified future date.
Purchase Contract
A Purchase Contract, also known as an Agreement of Sale, is a binding legal document outlining the terms and conditions under which a buyer agrees to purchase and a seller agrees to sell a property.
Testament
A testament is a legal document that articulates an individual’s wishes about how their personal property should be distributed after their death. The terms 'will,' 'testament,' and 'last will and testament' are often used interchangeably.
Trustee's Deed
A Trustee's Deed is a legal document that conveys property ownership from a trustee to a buyer, commonly used in real estate transactions involving foreclosed properties.

Real Estate Lexicon

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