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Abeyance: when ownership of properties has not been determined.

Abstract of Title: written report of a title search which shows the historical summary of ownership of a particular piece of real estate.

Abut: when two parcels of real property touch each other.

Addendum: an addition to a completed written document.

Adverse Possession: a means of acquiring title to real estate where an occupant has been in actual, open exclusive and continuous occupancy of property for the period required by state law.

Agency: the relationship of a person who acts on behalf of another.

Agreement of Sale: a meeting of the minds, often, another word for contract.

ALTA: American Land Title Association, an association of title insurance companies, which adopted certain insurance forms to standardize coverage.

Appraisal: an estimate of value of real estate as of a given date.

Appurtenant: pertaining to something that attaches a right or restriction that goes with the property.

As is: in a sales contract the buyer agrees to take the property without the right to complain if it is faulty.

Assessment: the value of the property used for tax purposes.

Assignment: the act of transferring an interest in property to another.

Attorney: an agent who is authorized to act for another.