Real Estate and Mortgage Terms

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

OBSOLESCENCE  
The process of an assets value diminishing due to the development of more desirable alternatives or because of the degradation of its capabilities.

OCCUPANCY   
A physical presence within and control of a property.

OCCUPANCY RATE  
The percentage of properties in a given area that are occupied.

OCTOPUS RECEPTACLE  
An outlet with too many devices plugged into it, using a power strip or other device to multiply the outlets.

OFF-SITE IMPROVEMENTS 
Buildings, structures or other amenities which are not located on a piece of property, but are necessary to maximize the use of the property or in some way contribute to the value of the property.

OFF-STREET PARKING 
Designated parking spaces associated with a particular building or other structure which are not located on public streets.

OLD TERMITE ACTIVITY  
Where no termites are currently active, but indications of past activity can be seen.

ON-SITE IMPROVEMENTS 
Buildings, structures or other amenities that are erected on a piece of property and contribute to its value.

OPEN SPACE   
Any land which has not had any significant buildings or structures erected on it. Most often used to describe desirable neighborhood features like parks.

OPEN SPLICE   
An uncovered electrical connection.

ORIGINAL EQUITY   
The amount of cash a home buyer initially invests in the home.

ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL BALANCE
The total amount of principal owed on a mortgage loan at the time of closing.

ORIGINATION FEE   
Refers to the total number of points paid by a borrower at closing.

OWNER FINANCING  
A transaction where the property owner provides all or part of the financing.

OWNER OCCUPIED   
The state of property wherein the owner occupies at least some portion of the property.