| Term | Definition |
|---|
| chattel | See personal property. |
| cleaning fee | A nonrefundable fee charged by a landlord when a tenant moves in. The fee covers the cost of cleaning the rented premises after you move out, even if you leave the place spotless. Cleaning fees are illegal in some states and specifically allowed in others, but most state laws are silent on the issue. Landlords in every state are allowed to use the security deposit to clean a unit that is truly dirty. |
| clear title | A land title that doesn't have any liens (including a mortgage) against it. |
| closing | The conclusion of the sales transaction when the seller transfers title to the buyer in exchange for consideration. These proceedings are usually held at a title company or attorney's office. |
| closing costs | Costs the buyer must pay at the time of the closing in addition to the down payment which may include points, title charges, credit report fee, document preparation fee, mortgage insurance premium, inspections, appraisals, prepayments for property taxes, deed recording fee, and homeowners insurance. Closing costs can vary considerably from one financial institution to another. |
| closing statement | A detailed written summary of the financial settlement of a real estate transaction, showing all charges and credits made, and all cash received and paid out. |
| cloud on title | A claim or encumbrance that may effect title to land. |
| co-op | See cooperative housing or cooperative sale. |
| co-tenants | Two or more tenants who rent the same property under the same lease or rental agreement. Each co-tenant is 100% responsible for carrying out the rental agreement, which includes paying the entire rent if the other tenant skips town and paying for damage caused by the other tenant. |
| collateral | Something of value deposited with a lender as a pledge to secure repayment of a loan. |
