by Ethan Atkinson | Jan 21, 2026 | A-E, PropertyPedia, Real Estate
In real estate law, color of title refers to a claim to ownership that appears to be valid based on a written document, such as a deed or court judgment, but is legally defective and does not convey true title. The defect may arise from issues such as improper...
by Ethan Atkinson | Jan 21, 2026 | A-E, PropertyPedia, Real Estate
In real estate and lending, collateral refers to marketable real or personal property that a borrower pledges to a lender as security for the repayment of a loan. The collateral gives the lender a legal claim to the property in the event the borrower defaults on the...
by Ethan Atkinson | Jan 21, 2026 | A-E, PropertyPedia, Real Estate
A code of ethics is a formal set of rules and principles that establishes standards of professional conduct for members of a particular profession and governs their responsibilities to clients, colleagues, and the public. It outlines expectations for honesty,...
by Ethan Atkinson | Jan 21, 2026 | A-E, PropertyPedia, Real Estate
In real estate, a cloud on title refers to any claim, lien, defect, or encumbrance that appears in the public record and could impair an owner’s clear ownership of property if it were determined to be valid. Although the encumbrance may be legally invalid or...
by Ethan Atkinson | Jan 21, 2026 | A-E, PropertyPedia, Real Estate
In real estate transactions, a closing statement is the detailed financial accounting that shows the final distribution of funds between the buyer and seller as of the day of closing. It itemizes all credits, debits, prorations, fees, and charges associated with the...
by Ethan Atkinson | Jan 21, 2026 | A-E, PropertyPedia, Real Estate
In real estate transactions, closing costs are the various expenses incurred by the buyer and seller that are necessary to complete the sale of property, in addition to the purchase price. These costs may include loan origination and discount fees, title search and...
