The Essential Dictionary of Real Estate: Completely Up-to-Date; Over 3,000 Real Estate Terms Explained

A" is for A la Carte Real Estate Service--transactions rendered one at a time instead of a commission-based, full service relationship. "Z" is for Zero Rate Loan, a loan with a large down payment and the balance to be paid in equal payments over a short period of time, with no interest charged. (Usually offered by an eager seller.) These terms, and everything in between, are found in this handy, easy-to-use dictionary, which defines all you need to know, from Appraisals to Zoning. It contains more than 2,000 words and concepts, all simply defined and with illustrations, charts, and graphs. Whether you're buying your first home, renovating an old one, or negotiating a purchase of investment property, this essential reference can help you simplify the complex terms and legalese that you'll find in every aspect of owning real estate.Lisa Holton was formerly a business editor at the Chicago Sun-Times.