Home buyers need to know the vocabulary | Kendra Cooke, The Tennessean | tennessean.com

Sometimes focusing on the vocabulary right from the start--explaining the meanings of unique words, terms and jargon for any particular field--can prevent confusion, mistakes and frustration. Short or long, a glossary buried (hidden?) at the end of a document is likely not helpful to the unaware reader and, as result, also not helpful to the writer (or sales person).

Probably knowing her advice will help home-sales, Cooke writes:

Much like having representation in a legal matter, home buyers need to be represented in a real estate transaction, too. Understanding the industry lingo can be daunting, even with a Realtor by your side.

She covers these words and and others: commitment letter, earnest money, escrow account, and contingency.