Real Estate Legal Terms Every Buyer and Renter Should Know

Escrow, liens, easements, eviction — the legal vocabulary of buying, selling, and renting property in plain English.

1. 1
   Escrow

   Money or documents held by a neutral third party until transaction conditions are met.
2. 2
   Easement

   The right to use someone else's land for a specific purpose, like crossing it or running utilities.
3. 3
   Adverse Possession

   Gaining legal ownership of land by occupying it openly and continuously for a set period.
4. 4
   Homestead Exemption

   A legal protection that shields a primary residence from creditors' claims up to a certain value.
5. 5
   Quiet Title

   A lawsuit to establish clear, undisputed ownership of property and remove competing claims.
6. 6
   Lien

   A legal claim against property to secure payment of a debt or obligation.
7. 7
   Tenant Rights

   Legal protections and entitlements that renters have regarding their leased property and living conditions.
8. 8
   Security Deposit

   Money a tenant pays upfront to a landlord as a guarantee against damage or unpaid rent.
9. 9
   Eviction

   The legal process by which a landlord removes a tenant from rental property.
10. 10
    Implied Warranty of Habitability

    A landlord's legal duty to maintain rental property in safe, livable condition.

This guide is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.