Friday, February 27, 2026
Home Features House & Land Autumn 2025 Useful real estate terminology

Useful real estate terminology

BE IN THE KNOW... Understand real estate terminology to put your best foot forward when buying, selling or investing in property. Photo: Supplied

Allotment: A plot of land divided into smaller pieces for sale or use.

Amenity: A feature or service in a neighbourhood, such as parks, schools, or pools, that enhances its appeal.

Appraisal: A report estimating the value of a property, usually done by real estate agents for free.

Auction: A public sale where buyers place bids on a property, and the highest bid wins.

Bridging finance: A short-term loan to help purchase a property before the sale of another one is completed.

Capital gains: Profit made from selling a property for more than what was paid for it.

Capital growth: The increase in a property’s value over time.

Caveat: A warning that someone else has an interest in the property, such as a legal claim.

Certificate of title: A legal document that proves property ownership and lists any claims against it (like mortgages).

Conveyancer: A professional who helps manage the paperwork and legal aspects of property transactions.

Cooling-off period: A short period (usually 5 business days) after signing a contract during which the buyer can change their mind.

Contract: A legal agreement between a buyer and seller outlining the terms of the property sale.

Equity: The difference between the property’s current value and what is owed on the mortgage.

Settlement: The final step in a property transaction where ownership officially transfers from the seller to the buyer.

Stamp duty: A government tax on property purchases, typically based on the property’s price.

Valuation: An assessment of a property’s value, often required for loans, legal cases, or divorce settlements, done by a professional valuer.

BE IN THE KNOW… Understand real estate terminology to put your best foot forward when buying, selling or investing in property. Photo: Supplied