Glossary of Real Estate Terms (do-du)

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

Dormer

• A window set upright in a sloping roof.

Double-hung window

• A window that consists of two sashes that slide up and down.

Dovetail joints

• Joints that lock two pieces of wood together with meshed teeth.

Down payment

• The amount of money a buyer agrees to give the seller when a sales agreement is signed. Complete financing is later secured with a lender.

Down spouts

• A vertical gutter that empties water from the roof to the ground.

Drainage

• A system of gutters and drainpipes that carry water away from the foundation of a house.

Draw

• A payment made to subcontractors or suppliers from a construction loan.

Dropped ceiling

• A flat ceiling built lower than the original ceiling.

Dry rot

• A fungal decay that causes wood to become brittle and crumble.

Drywall

• A construction material composed of gypsum or plaster wrapped in paper and produced in large sheets that can be nailed to wall studs.

Dual agency

• A relationship in which a real estate agent or broker represents both parties in a transaction.

Duct

• Any kind of pipe or channel that carries water, wiring or conditioned air through a house.

Due-on-sale clause

• Standard language in a mortgage which states that the loan must be paid when a house is sold.

Duplex

• A structure that consists of two separate family units.

Dutch colonial style

• A design that features barn-like gambrel roof, a ground-level front porch, and dormers.