1st things 1st
First, you need to think about what's important to you in order to quickly and easily find the property that you need, ie, is it the price, location or property type that is more important in your search for property?

If the price of a property is your priority then please click the double arrows at the top of the website (under the search button) in order to use the "Price Range" criteria to search the database, otherwise you click the double arrow again to use the "Location" criteria if location is a key factor in your search. Below is an explanation of the different search options.

Price range criteria
If the price of your desired property is more important to you then you will search using the "Price range" option by clicking the double arrows at the top of the website and then enter your desired price range, this will give you results that are arranged in order of price within your specified range.

Location criteria
If the location of your ideal property is more important to you then you will search using the "Location" option, in this case you will also need to select a property category (eg Houses for rent) and this will give you all results within a selected location and category.
Make a (special) request
In case you just don't have time to search through the 1000s of properties in the database or you would like to be advised on the best option for your unique needs, then you can use the "Make a request" option at the top of the website to specify your requirements. Once you make a special request then all agents who have what you need will get back to you with several options for you to choose the best.

House code search
If you are visiting the database for the second time and you know the codes of the houses that you selected, you do not need to search again, all you have to do is to use the "Codes" option/link at the bottom of the website to search by entering all the codes of your selected properties and you will get results that are limited to the codes you have entered.

This option is also good if you would like to send all the selected properties to your freind in one single list. ie after entering the codes and getting results you then simply copy the URL of the results page and send it to your friend.

Property alerts
In case you can't find anything that suits your needs (which is very rare) or you would like to keep track of all the latest properties within your budget, the best way to do that is to use the "Property alerts" option at the top of the website.

The property alert system is a free property monitoring service suitable for anyone who would like to be informed whenever a desired property is uploaded into the database.

 

Please, don't forget to write a review (star rating) after your meeting or tour or engagement with any of the listing agents, your review of our agents will confirm that you got (or did not get) the services which you paid for.

The review will help us to improve on our online or offline services and also help to identify the MVPs.

All realtors (and real estate: agents, brokers, developers) are invited to register and join the Real Estate Database (RED), If you already have a real estate website then your website will be linked directly to the Real Estate Database (RED) so that all the properties you upload on your own website can also be displayed on the RED website simultaneously, this will help you to increase your property leads and sales.

If you do not have a real estate website yet, then join the RED membership and get a free website with all the required real estate functionalities, before logging in as a new member; you must first register to get a username and password, after registration then you can be able to login with your new password and username.

After registration you can then login and begin to upload your properties [one by one] with their details and images, you can upload unlimited images for each property of which the first image is compulsory, hence you must have at least 2 images for each of the properties that you want to upload, Images can be taken with a digital or phone camera; they can also be scanned.

NB:- Please ensure that all your images are less or just about 640 Pix in width, any images that are more than that may take so long to upload or may fail completely depending on how fast/slow your internet connection is, so! to ensure that your images remain small please request for instructions on how to resize your images.

Warning:- Ensure that you do not post/upload any material that are unrelated to the Purchase/Sale or Rent of properties, or materials for which you have not received permission to use by the rightful owners. Otherwise if you upload any materials that violate the membership agreement then your account will be suspended.

Advertising your property on the Real Estate Database (RED) is key to visibilty. If no one knows about your property, how will you get a buyer or tenant? The longer your rental property is on the market, the more you will lose as a landlord.

Thankfully, there is the RED that can help to get the word out about your property. We live in the age of the internet and if you don’t market your property online, you will shrink your pool for potential applicants significantly because most renters search online to find their next home.  

Using the RED, you’re now able to connect and share property information with people across the globe within seconds. You can post a new listing on the RED and showcase interesting or fun facts about the property with photos and videos to illustrate why it’s a great place to live.  

When you list your property on the RED, your property will be displayed on the most popular rental websites in the RED network, reaching 1000s of potential tenants. If you need help managing your property, the RED will recommend the best property managers or the best software that allows landlords to accept applications, screen applicants, generate a lease, and collect payments online.  

Although there are tons of free property listing web sites, the RED will take your marketing a step further.

 

Click here to see a full list of real estate agents/brokers/realtors in Uganda that have been vetted/approved by the Real Estate Database (RED), these agents/companies can assist you in all your property buying, selling needs.

The list is made up of only trusted agents that have vast experience in the local real estate market, so feel free to call any of them for help regarding your property sales/purchases.

 

 

Once a property has been built, that is when some developers think about marketing, thats mostly because they have a finished product to show off, and in some cases, tenants to showcase.

 

But if you do the advertising work before the construction begins, there will be a lot of traffic and awareness as soon as the project is complete. Marketing and outreach are just as important on the development side as it is on the sales & leasing side of real estate.

 

The Real Estate Database (RED) is here to help developers to increase visibility of their new projects to the desired target group. The RED has a section on the home page that is dedicated to show casing new estates and projects from real estate developers.

 

So, if you are a developer and you need to list all your new projects (properties) on the Real Estate Database under the estate and projects section, then please contact Julius Czar on +256705162000

 

Or click here to chat with us on WhatsApp.

The Real Estate Database can help increase exposure to renters so that property managers can get their properties in front of thousands of more potential tenants.

Tenants today are mostly using online tools to find a home for rent. This is one of the main reasons why property managers need to be using the RED to gain maximum exposure and get vacancies filled fast with qualified renters.

There are many benefits to using the RED, especially because it’s the number 1 way renters look for homes. And one of the biggest benefits to using the RED is the massive increase in marketing exposure.

The RED uses syndication technics to post your listings not on just the one listing portal but on many other major real estate rental listing like www.Lamudi.co.ug and www.Realtor.ug.

You can save a lot of time and money by reaching way more potential tenants faster and by getting your vacant property rented quicker.

The RED makes it easier to maximize leads from qualified tenants.

Welcome to the Real Estate Database (RED)

I'm Julius Sebbale, Managing Director of Zillion Technologies Limited and Founder of RED. It’s my pleasure to welcome property buyers, real estate agents, brokers, realtors, developers, and investors alike to our dynamic platform. Here at RED, we’ve created a comprehensive and user-friendly space that connects you with an extensive range of properties, insights, and tools to make every real estate transaction seamless and rewarding.

For buyers, we offer a diverse selection of properties tailored to meet various preferences and budgets. For agents, brokers, and developers, RED serves as a powerful tool to maximize visibility, generate quality leads, and drive successful transactions. We are dedicated to supporting your real estate journey with the latest market data, innovative search features, and marketing resources that empower you to find exactly what you're looking for—or to help others do the same.

Thank you for visiting RED. Whether you’re here to explore, invest, or collaborate, our team is excited to support you every step of the way.

The Real Estate Database (RED) is the largest database in Uganda that interlinks several real estate websites in order to create a pool of 1000s of properties in one place, the RED also distributes all the collected properties to several other listing websites/portals as shown in the image below. 

 

Numbers 1 to 13 represents a cross section of several top websites that are linked to the Real Estate Database (RED).

Number 14 represents the direct feed that automatically links all participating real estate websites to the RED.

Number 15 represents a direct feed that automatically distributes properties in the RED to other real estate listing websites and portals within the official distribution network, such portals including the following: (16) Lamudi, (18) Mobo Free, (19) Super Price, (20) Kupatana, (21) Property Map, plus the Real Estate Database portal and many others.

The basic objective of the Real Estate Database (RED) is to build a network of real estate websites in Uganda so as to create the largest pool of 1000s of properties in one place, and also to distribute the same properties to as many portals as possible in order to increase sales.

All real estate agents and developers are invited to register and link their websites to the Real Estate Database at: www.RealEstateDatabase.net, There are several reasons why every agent needs to join the Real Estate Database, however on of the key reasons is that when you join the RED then your properties will be redistributed to a wider online market.

NB: if an agent does not have a website then he gets one free of charge when he/she joins the RED network.

 

REAL ESTATE WEBSITE FEATURES Once you contract us to design your real estate website, we shall offer you all the following features: 1) Property Search: We will provide your website with the most appropriate property search engine that will give it the ability to always return results from a specified location or a specified price range, the search criteria can be customized to your specifications or similar to what is on this very website. 2) Property codes Each of your properties will be automatically assigned a property code, so that buyers/visitors who return to your website can identify or enter the codes they saw earlier in order to quickly get the exact house/land that they liked. 3) Unlimited Images We allow an unlimited number of photos for each listing, for you, this is a great advantage, since your competition in the market typically provides only 5 or so images for their base service. We encourage you to provide more than 10 images for each listing depending on the size and value of the property. 4) Watermarks on images It has become very common for lazy agents to steal photos of other agents from the internet and use them on their own websites. However, we have come up with ways to use automatic watermarks in order to guarantee the intellectual property of the images on agent's listings. 5) Property details: Your website will display several property details including the following; Property Code, Location, Number of bedrooms, Price, Agent, Levels, property type, Description Amenities and all contact details plus unlimited images. The website will also be able to display several property status as follows: New, Reduced, On Offer, Hot Deal, Short Let, Furnished, Foreclosure, Comming soon, Back on market, etc. 6) Send to a friend form: This form helps a visitor to quickly share the property with is friend or husband or wife and thus a quicker decision can be taken as opposed to waiting for all of them to search for the same property. 7) Request a viewing: This will enable the buyer to instantly request and schedule a tour of the property while he/she is on the page of the same property, i.e, each property must have an enquiry form. 8) Currency converter: This enables the buyer to view the properties in a currency of his/her choice, available currencies include: Dollars, Euros, Shillings and Pounds and any other currencies of choice. 9) Google map showing the location of a property: Entering Google coordinates while uploading a property will help to show the exact location of a property otherwise the system will automatically show who the bird’s eye view or the approximate area in which the property is located, this helps to give the buyer an idea about the location of the property. 10) Related properties: While viewing the details of a specific property a potential buyer is also shown other properties in the same location or properties within the same price range or properties of the same type, this helps to increase the probability for the buyer to choose from related options when provided with a wider collection. 11) Boost your property: Boosting your property will give it prominence, boosted properties appear higher in the search results, so there's a better chance that a potential buyer will see them, to be precise a boosted post is a post from your listing that can be made to appear higher up in the search results at a fee. 12) Social Media integration (Share/Like/Send): We shall integrate social media in your real estate website and this will help you or your visitors to: Share, Send and Like each property or to Follow your page. The integration will also enable you to automatically list your properties within Facebook. 13) Website linkage with XML (IDX) Feeds: Your website will be linked to more than 10 property listing portals including: Lamudi, Kupatana, AfriBaba, Facebook, Property Map and several others, The XML linkage means that you will upload your properties to your website and they will be distributed to all other portals automatically. This XML feed will save a lot of your time and it will also ensure the timely distribution of your properties to a wider audience, i.e. the data on your website will also be consistent with the data on all other listing websites/platforms. Our guarantee is that we shall be able to do this linkage within one week like we have already done for all the other agents who are members of the Real Estate Database (RED). 14) Self-update control panel Our easy to use control panel enables you to manage your own real estate website and make changes on your pages instantly. Use your website control panel to easily manage content, listings, menu items, leads and more. 15) Mortgage calculator If your clients are interested in a mortgage, we provide them with a mortgage calculator which makes it easy to get an overview/estimate of their mortgage projections. 16) Property statistics The RED  account will provide you with real time (live) statistics and graphs regarding the performance of your properties, this will help you to allocate resources and efforts optimally, such statistics may include: Total active properties, number of properties in the major categories, total number of properties uploaded per month, properties visited on a specific day, most visited properties, least visited properties, most visited locations/areas and many other reports that you may need or propose.   17) Chatroom A chat room helps you to connect and engage instantly with your customers, it gives you online brand a voice so that you can engage your customers and create meaningful relationships by talking to them over a live chat, this increases the chances of high value sales and helps you to reach out to customers who need help in order to make a choice and create a unique experience for each of your customers. The most important point though is that a live chat is the easiest and fastest way for the customer to contact you whenever there is a problem or whenever they need more information. 18) Mobile friendly websites We design mobile friendly websites, which means that your website’s information (images, texts, videos, links) is easily and readily accessible across all different platforms or devices and, most particularly, on the much smaller screen of smartphones and tablets. At a more complex level, mobile friendly means utilizing to the utmost all the incredible capabilities of mobile devices to deliver an effective, satisfying experience to users on the go. 19) Android App As part of your RED membership package, you will get an Android App that your clients can install on their mobile phones directly from the Google play store, once they do that then they no longer have to remember your domain name, all they need to do is to tap your app icon on their screens in order to get access to all your properties. 20) Property Alerts Your potential clients can subscribe for property alerts based on thier budgets; so that whenever you upload a new property to your website then such clients will get an email alert that you have uploaded a new property within their budget. 21) Generate fliers You can easily generate fliers directly from your own real estate website by simply typing the domain of your website then add following at the end: /Fliers/Default.aspx, feel free to print and put the fliers on your notice board and show room window, or at all malls and other public places/boards, or save and send the fliers to your clients as attachments. 22) Multi agent account Your website will be designed in such a way that each agent has his/her account (complete with contact details plus username and password), hence you can feel free to add as many agents as possible, so that each of them can upload their own properties. 23) Support / Training We understand how important it is that you get the support you need, when you need it. Our average response time is 1-2 hours during normal business hours Monday-Friday.

CONCLUSION (Take Action Now!)
Several real estate companies have successfully used the Real Estate Database (RED) plus our website design services (and our linkage services) to increase customer engagements online, and thus we strongly believe that our online real estate services will work for you too at a cost of 1,200,000 shillings only.

Use the form above (on this page) to contact us right now and make a quick enquiry about our real estate website design and XML linkage services. 

By investing in a Real Estate Database (RED) franchise; you will be granted an exclusive license to use our RED system, images, trademarks and other intellectual property for the purpose of operating an online RED business in your country.

We provide a "single region/country operator" franchise model, which means that only one franchisee can operate in a designated country. This typically includes: 

• A 5 year franchise term that is renewable
• An initial fee for the value of the franchise.
• Monthly royalties as a percentage total turnover/sales.

All fees and payments will vary according to factors such as the size of the regional market, the historical volume of sales from the website and the current status of the real estate industry in your region.

 

The initial franchise fee will also vary from region to region and can range from $5,000 to $10,000. We will be able to provide specific information regarding this during our franchise recruitment process. However the major point to note about our overall strategy is that we believe in a "Start Small Grow Big" approach.

A complete list of fees will be provided to you in our RED Franchise Disclosure Document and Franchise Agreement. We also require a franchisee to obtain independent business advice and accounting advice before they enter into a franchise agreement.

The RED has been promoting properties in Uganda for over 10 years. We're committed to the global real estate market and all related business opportunities.

We are Uganda's largest network of real estate websites, with more than 50 agencies and developers whose websites are linked directly to the RED and to other real estate portals. We are confident that our franchisees will benefit from the strength of the RED brand and also its technology.

The strongest aspect of the RED is the ability to interlink (sync) several real estate websites in order to create a pool of 1000s of properties in one place, this is the factor that is at the heart of our success.

Every successful business is built on a solid foundation. And that's precisely what we give our franchisees: Comprehensive training, head office support, online alliances, and standardized systems, tools and processes are what we bring to the table.

Real Estate agents and brokers want to publish (syndicate) their properties on several websites in order to increase the opportunities of those properties being seen by a bigger number of property hunters who are using the internet to find what they are looking for, they also want to save the time required to upload the same properties on several websites, this can be achieved by creating partnerships between websites/portals or databases.

If you have a property listing website and you would like to display all the latest properties directly from the Real Estate Database (RED) to your website then we are providing you with two formats through which you can connect to the database and querry the properties you need or you can import the properties into your database everyday; 1) using a live XML feed, 2) using an up-to-date CSV / Excel file, all these two formats contain the same properties, so its up to you to choose the easier option for you.

1. XML Feed:
   (The XML feed format is normalized and more detailed, thus it can be queried directly by your system)
2. CSV / Excel file:
   (The CSV format is not normalized since each listing is in one raw, and thus it has a limited number of 2 images)

However, if you are a real estate agent or broker and would like to publish all your properties directly from your website into the Real Estate Database (RED) (and to any other property listing website), then the best way to do so is by contacting us to link your website directly to the RED or converting your listings into an XML data feed and then sending us the live feed of all the active properties in your database.

Your website designer (technical team) can create this feed and then submit it through your company's account in the RED, ie you need to create a RED account first in order to submit your XML feed and thus all the properties in the feed will be associated with your account.

We will connect directly to your feed and process your properties from the URL that you provide (we require a static URL that never changes), and once you provide a feed then it will not be necessary to upload any properties from within the same account, else that would create duplicates, all you have to do is upload properties on your website and they will appear in the RED listing and also on other property listing websites like: Kupatana, Supa Price, Lamudi, Property Maps, Find A House and Mobo Free.

How do I sign up to create/submit my feed to the RED?

Go to www.RealEstateDatabase.info, then fill out and submit the form on the member registration page so as to create an account, then enter your feed's URL after you have accessed your new account.

If you are not sure how to create/get/submit your XML feed then send us an email at: e-mail info@realestatedatabase.info or call 0705162000 (Julius) and ask for assistance or for more information on how we can help you to easily create a live feed for your website like we have done for all the others.

What communication protocols do you support?

We support the HTTP protocol only. If your feed is password protected, please contact us and we’ll set things up to maintain that security were possible.

What kind of feed formats do you support?
 
We support the "RED Interchange Format": This is our own feed format that will allow you to display appropriate listings on the RED website. You will see the RED Interchange Format specifications in one of the tables below. Please note: that we do not allow feeds that have  images with Logos in them, use only clean original images.

Who do I contact in case something isn’t working correctly?
 
Please contact our Customer Support via e-mail at info@realestatedatabase.info or you can contact 0705162000 (Julius).

What's the required update Frequency

The frequency with which we update/process your feed depends on various factors, eg if the feed for your websites was created by our team then processing will be done as soon as new properties are updated on your websites.

However if the feed was submitted to us through an external provider then such a feed will be updated/checked on daily basis (once and day). Please contact us to find out how often your feed will be updated.

Field Specifications/Details (technical)

Because some characters will not display as intended after the XML is parsed, its required that you enclose all tag values in a CDATA section as shown in the example on this page. Anything enclosed within these tags will not be parsed and will be displayed literally.

By using the RED Interchange Format, you can include as much detail about a home as you'd like, especially within the description tag, the more information you can supply, the more attractive the home will be to a potential buyer.

We only accept the UTF-8 encoding for all XML feeds and the feed must contain every single property that you want to be live on the RED. All the properties that are in the feed will be posted into the RED unless an error occurs during the processing of your feed. Any properties that are no longer in the feed will be removed from the RED.

 

Click here to check out all the required fields for your feed:

We can help you to create a feed for your website.

The cost/time required in creating a feed for your website depends on the complexity of its internal structure, you will thus need to contact us in order to make a quick assessment of your website and then we shall let you know the net price in case you would like us to generate your feed,  however the average price is 600K and the average time is 2 to 7 days.

If you have no website or if you would like a new website then we shall design one for you and also create the feed at a total cost of 1.2m only, and if you are a paid up member of the RED then your feed is already active.

We look forward to receiving all your feeds and we are still open to any suggestions on how you would like to submit your feed or how you would like to structure it.

This privacy policy has been compiled to better serve those who are concerned with how their 'Personally identifiable information' (PII) is being used online.

Please read our privacy policy carefully to get a clear understanding of how we collect, use, protect or otherwise handle your Personally Identifiable Information in accordance with our website.

What personal information do we collect from the people that visit our blog, website or app?

When ordering or registering on our site, as appropriate, you may be asked to enter your name, email address, mailing address, credit card information or other details to help you with your experience.

When do we collect information?

We collect information from you when you register on our site, place an order, subscribe to a newsletter, fill out a form or enter information on our site.

How do we use your information?

We may use such information in the following ways:

• To personalize user's experience and to allow us to deliver the type of content and product offerings in which you are most interested.
• To improve our website in order to better serve you.
• To allow us to better service you in responding to your customer service requests.
• To administer a contest, promotion, survey or other site feature.
• To quickly process your transactions.
• To send periodic emails regarding your order or other products and services.

How do we protect visitor information?

Our website is scanned on a regular basis for security holes and known vulnerabilities in order to make your visit to our site as safe as possible.

We use regular Malware Scanning.

Your personal information is contained behind secured networks and is only accessible by a limited number of persons who have special access rights to such systems, and are required to keep the information confidential. In addition, all sensitive/credit information you supply is encrypted via Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology.

We implement a variety of security measures when a user places an order enters, submits, or accesses their information to maintain the safety of your personal information.

All transactions are processed through a gateway provider and are not stored or processed on our servers.

Do we use 'cookies'?

Yes. Cookies are small files that a site or its service provider transfers to your computer's hard drive through your Web browser (if you allow) that enables the site's or service provider's systems to recognize your browser and capture and remember certain information. For instance, we use cookies to help us remember and process the items in your shopping cart. They are also used to help us understand your preferences based on previous or current site activity, which enables us to provide you with improved services. We also use cookies to help us compile aggregate data about site traffic and site interaction so that we can offer better site experiences and tools in the future.

We use cookies to:

• Help remember and process the items in the shopping cart.
• Understand and save user's preferences for future visits.
• Compile aggregate data about site traffic and site interactions in order to offer better site experiences and tools in the future. We may also use trusted third party services that track this information on our behalf.

You can choose to have your computer warn you each time a cookie is being sent, or you can choose to turn off all cookies. You do this through your browser (like Internet Explorer) settings. Each browser is a little different, so look at your browser's Help menu to learn the correct way to modify your cookies.

If you disable cookies off, some features will be disabled It will turn off some of the features that make your site experience more efficient and some of our services will not function properly.

How can you opt out, remove or modify information you have provided to us?

You can request to have your information removed by clicking on the Contact Us/Live Chat button on this or the home page.

Please note that we may maintain information about an individual sales transaction in order to complete that transaction and for record keeping purposes.

Third Party Disclosures

We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer to outside parties your personally identifiable information unless we provide you with advance notice. This does not include website hosting partners and other parties who assist us in operating our website, conducting our business, or servicing you, so long as those parties agree to keep this information confidential. We may also release your information when we believe release is appropriate to comply with the law, enforce our site policies, or protect ours or others' rights, property, or safety.

However, non-personally identifiable visitor information may be provided to other parties for marketing, advertising, or other uses.

Third party Links

Occasionally, at our discretion, we may include or offer third party products or services on our website. These third party sites have separate and independent privacy policies. We therefore have no responsibility or liability for the content and activities of these linked sites. Nonetheless, we seek to protect the integrity of our site and welcome any feedback about these sites.

Transfer Of Your Personal Information

Your information, including personal information, may be transferred to — and maintained on — computers located outside of your state, province, country or other governmental jurisdiction where the data protection laws may differ than those from your jurisdiction.

We will take all steps reasonably necessary to ensure that your data is treated securely and in accordance with this Privacy Policy and no transfer of your personal information will take place to an organization or a country unless there are adequate controls in place including the security of your data and other personal information.

Disclosure Of Your Personal Information

If we are involved in a merger, acquisition or asset sale, your personal information may be transferred. We will provide notice before your personal information is transferred and becomes subject to a different Privacy Policy.

Under certain circumstances, we may be required to disclose your personal information if required to do so by law or in response to valid requests by public authorities (e.g. a court or a government agency).

Retention of Your Personal Information

We will retain your personal information only for as long as is necessary for the purposes set out in this Privacy Policy. We will retain and use your information to the extent necessary to comply with our legal obligations (for example, if we are required to retain your data to comply with applicable laws), resolve disputes, and enforce our legal agreements and policies.

Information Regarding Your Data Protection Rights Under General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

For the purpose of this Privacy Policy, we are a Data Controller of your personal information.

If you are from the European Economic Area (EEA), our legal basis for collecting and using your personal information, as described in this Privacy Policy, depends on the information we collect and the specific context in which we collect it. We may process your personal information because:

• We need to perform a contract with you, such as when you create a Policy with us
• You have given us permission to do so
• The processing is in our legitimate interests and it's not overridden by your rights
• For payment processing purposes
• To comply with the law

If you are a resident of the European Economic Area (EEA), you have certain data protection rights. In certain circumstances, you have the following data protection rights:

• The right to access, update or to delete the personal information we have on you
• The right of rectification
• The right to object
• The right of restriction
• The right to data portability
• The right to withdraw consent

Please note that we may ask you to verify your identity before responding to such requests.

You have the right to complain to a Data Protection Authority about our collection and use of your personal information. For more information, please contact your local data protection authority in the European Economic Area (EEA).

Service Providers

We employ third party companies and individuals to facilitate our Website ("Service Providers"), to provide our Website on our behalf, to perform Website-related services or to assist us in analyzing how our Website is used. These third-parties have access to your personal information only to perform these tasks on our behalf and are obligated not to disclose or use it for any other purpose.

• Analytics

  • Google Analytics is a web analytics service offered by Google that tracks and reports website traffic. Google uses the data collected to track and monitor the use of our Service. This data is shared with other Google services. Google may use the collected data to contextualize and personalize the ads of its own advertising network.

    You can opt-out of having made your activity on the Service available to Google Analytics by installing the Google Analytics opt-out browser add-on. The add-on prevents the Google Analytics JavaScript (ga.js, analytics.js, and dc.js) from sharing information with Google Analytics about visits activity.

    For more information on the privacy practices of Google, please visit the Google Privacy & Terms web page: https://www.google.com/intl/en/policies/privacy/

• Payments processors

  We provide paid products and/or services on our Website. In that case, we use third-party services for payment processing (e.g. payment processors).

  We will not store or collect your payment card details. That information is provided directly to our third-party payment processors whose use of your personal information is governed by their Privacy Policy. These payment processors adhere to the standards set by PCI-DSS as managed by the PCI Security Standards Council.

Contacting Us

If there are any questions regarding this privacy policy you may contact us.

Are you in search of professional mortgage services to make your dream of owning a home a reality?

 

Look no further! Simply pick up the phone and dial Julius Czar at +256705162000, a dedicated expert from the renowned Real Estate Database (RED).

Julius is here to offer you expert guidance and assistance in securing the ideal mortgage that aligns seamlessly with your current financial circumstances. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, Julius Czar will carefully evaluate your budget and income to help you find the perfect mortgage deal.

With a wealth of experience and access to a vast network of lending institutions and options, Julius can steer you toward the most favorable terms, interest rates, and repayment plans.

 

Don't let the complexities of the mortgage market overwhelm you, let Julius Czar and RED be your trusted advisor partners in achieving your homeownership goals. Get in touch with Julius today, and take the first step towards securing your future in your dream home.

Are you currently in need of professional relocation or moving services to make your transition from one property to another as smooth as possible?

 

Look no further! Give Julius Czar a call at +25670516200, and he will provide you with expert guidance on how to connect with a moving company that perfectly aligns with your existing budget and requirements. Whether you're moving locally or embarking on a long-distance journey, Julius Czar is your go-to source for valuable advice and assistance in securing the ideal movers to cater to your specific needs.

 

Don't let the stress of relocating overwhelm you, reach out to Julius Czar today, and he'll help you take the first step toward a hassle-free and cost-effective moving experience.

Are you in search of a skilled and reliable property valuer to assess the worth of your property?

 

Look no further! Just give Julius Czar a call at +256705162000, and he'll provide you with expert guidance on how to connect with a qualified valuer in Uganda who not only meets your specific needs but also aligns with your budget.

Valuation services are essential for a variety of reasons, including:

1. Property Sale or Purchase:

If you're buying or selling a property, you'll want an accurate valuation to ensure a fair transaction and prevent overpaying or selling below market value.

2. Mortgage and Financing:

Lenders require property valuations to determine the loan amount they can provide. It's crucial for securing favorable mortgage terms.

3. Insurance Purposes:

Valuations help set the right insurance coverage, ensuring that your property is adequately protected in case of damage or loss.

4. Estate Planning:

When planning your estate, you need accurate valuations to distribute assets equitably among heirs or beneficiaries.

5. Property Tax Assessment:

Local governments use property valuations to determine property tax rates. An accurate valuation can help you avoid overpaying on property taxes.

6. Legal Disputes:

In legal matters such as divorce settlements or property disputes, valuations are crucial for fair asset distribution.

7. Portfolio Management:

Investors use property valuations to make informed decisions about their real estate investments, including buying, selling, or refinancing.

8. Financial Planning:

Valuations play a significant role in your overall financial planning, helping you assess your net worth and make informed investment decisions.

9. Renovation and Improvement:

Before investing in property improvements, a valuation can help you understand how these changes may impact the property's value.

10. Risk Assessment:

For businesses, property valuations are important for risk assessment, especially when considering mergers, acquisitions, or expansion.

Julius Czar has worked with several valuers and thus has knowledge and experience to steer you in the right direction, ensuring that you receive accurate and fair assessments. With his assistance, you can confidently proceed with your property valuation needs, making informed decisions in various real estate transactions and financial planning. Don't hesitate; reach out to Julius Czar today for the guidance you need to find the perfect valuer for your property.

The Real Estate Database (RED) is a well established online plartform offering property listings services in the real estate market within Uganda and beyond. We help real estate agents and developers to achieve their target by selling their properties much faster.

The RED also acts as a storage for your property related data (images, videos, text content, virtual tours, data files, etc). Keeping such content on mobile devices is not guranteed to be safe, yet the RED can store such items safely for as long as your account is active.

Click here to contact us for more information about our property listing services.  

 

Never ever miss a new property that fits within your "current" budget, click the link above to subscribe for property alerts from the Real Estate Database (RED), you will receive the latest listings (within your budget) straight into your inbox/app, be the first to know when a property that fits within your budget is uploaded into the database.

 

We are not including a location criteria on the subscription form since we believe that your budget will easily determine the kind of location that you need, eg we do not expect a person who would like to rent in Kawempe to enter a minimum budget of 2,000,000 Shs for rentals or 2B Shs for sales since such houses are not there in that area, and we also think that a person who is interested to rent in Naguru or Kololo cannot enter a maximum budget of 1,000,000 Shs or 200M for houses on sale since most of the houses in that area are above that amount.

NB: When you received a property that is not in the location of your choice it will still give you a good comparison of what to expect since its within your desired price range.

Updating your subscription 
In order to update your subscription (eg to change your budget), simply enter a new budget range and (re)subscribe with the same email address.

UnSubscribe
To (un)subscribe simply put a zero for both Max and Min budget and you will not receive any more alerts since there are no zero priced properties in the database.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are receiving too many (or too few) property alerts that do not seem to satisfy your needs, then it's most likely that the "budget range" which you entered ealier is too wide (or too small) and thus out of scope, therefore; you will need to update or reduce or increase your budget range by re-entering your new budget range into the form above using the same email address.

An ideal range for rentals would be a difference of 500,000 between the Minimum budget and Maximum budget, while an ideal range for properties on sale would be a difference of 50,000,000

Free service
This property alert system is a free property monitoring service suitable for anyone who would like to be informed whenever a property that fits his/her budget is uploaded into the database. "NO MORE SEARCHING, LET YOUR PROPERTIES FIND YOU!"

Are you an agent?
Your latest properties can be distributed in form of alerts, all you need to do is to register as a member of the RED and link your website to the Real Estate Database (RED) so that you too can send property alerts to potential buyers.

We offer Android app development services for your real estate business, our App development services comprise of design, development, and enhancement of mobile software that runs on all supported Android OS versions.

 

Targeting Android with native, hybrid, and cross-platform development always guarantees a sustainable and seamless mobile experience.

 

Here below are some samples of our work in Android App developemt:

Our parent company, Zillion Technologies Limited's exceptional Step-by-Step Video Tutorial Creation Services offer you a dynamic and engaging way to impart knowledge and skills through instructional videos. Our expert team is dedicated to crafting visually appealing tutorials with crystal-clear audio narration, ensuring that your audience stays captivated while learning.

 

With a focus on simplicity and user-friendliness, our video tutorials are thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of mobile app developers and software enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to educate, train, or simply entertain, our services provide the perfect solution to deliver effective, accessible, and versatile learning experiences. Get ready to revolutionize the way you share knowledge with our meticulously crafted step-by-step video tutorials.

 

What Is a Video Tutorial?

A video tutorial is an instructional video that provides step-by-step guidance on how to perform a specific task or learn a particular skill. It utilizes visuals and audio narration to make learning easier and more engaging for the audience.

Why Would You Make a Video Tutorial?

Video tutorials have become increasingly popular due to their effectiveness in conveying information. They are an excellent medium for teaching, training, and guiding users through complex processes. Whether you want to educate customers, train employees, or provide self-learning resources, video tutorials offer a powerful and versatile solution.

Benefits of Video Tutorials:

1. Encourages viewers to engage: Video tutorials capture viewers' attention through visuals and interactive elements, making the learning process more enjoyable and engaging.

2. The viewer has more control: Learners can pause, rewind, or fast-forward video tutorials, allowing them to set their own pace and review specific sections as needed.

3. Easier to follow: Visual demonstrations make it easier for viewers to understand complex concepts or procedures, reducing the chances of misinterpretation.

4. Increased accessibility and reach: Video tutorials can be accessed anytime and anywhere, making them convenient for a global audience with diverse learning preferences.

5. Easy self-teaching / learning: Video tutorials enable users to learn at their own convenience, without the need for a physical instructor, making it a cost-effective solution for self-paced learning.

Service Offerings:

1. Step-by-step script writing: Zillion Technologies Limited offers the option to have a script written for you at an additional charge of USD 0.25 per word. This service ensures a professionally crafted, comprehensive, and clear script to deliver an effective tutorial.

2. Chapter-wise breakdown: For lengthy tutorials, the script will be divided into chapters, each having its own video. This approach enables a structured and organized learning experience, ensuring that users can easily navigate through the content.

3. MP3 audio script approval: Before proceeding with the video creation, Zillion Technologies Limited provides the audio version of the script in MP3 format for your approval. This step ensures that the narration aligns with your requirements.

4. Mobile screen optimization: The video tutorials are tailored for mobile screens, with the assumption that the desktop version operates similarly. This allows users to access the content seamlessly on their mobile devices.

5. Dual video format delivery: Upon completion, you will receive both low-resolution and high-resolution video versions in MP4 format. The low-resolution version is ideal for online viewing, while the high-resolution version ensures optimal quality for offline viewing.

6. Versatile sharing options: All video formats can be freely posted and shared on various platforms and devices, maximizing accessibility for the target audience.

Target Audience:

The video tutorials cater to individuals and organizations involved in software/web development targeting mobile screens, both online and offline. Whether you are a developer, designer, or end-user, these tutorials offer valuable insights and knowledge to enhance your mobile app development skills.

Conclusion:

Zillion Technologies Limited's step-by-step video tutorial creation services are designed to provide a simple and user-friendly learning experience. With a professionally crafted script, engaging visuals, and mobile-friendly optimization, these tutorials offer effective guidance for your software development journey. Empower yourself or your clients and your team with these valuable resources to excel in the mobile app development landscape.

To experience a sample of our video tutorial, click here >> https://www.realestatedatabase.net/ListingsAdmin/REDManual.mp4.

We hereby proudly present a comprehensive list of construction companies that are esteemed members of our Real Estate Database (RED) network. These companies specialize in providing top-notch construction services in Uganda within the areas of Kampala, Wakiso, and beyond. We understand the importance of reliable and efficient construction services, and that's why we've curated this exclusive list to meet your diverse needs.

Feel free to explore the profiles of the companies listed below by clicking on their respective links. Each link will provide you with detailed information about the company, including their expertise, past projects, and contact details. This one-stop platform is designed to simplify your search for construction services, ensuring that you make informed decisions tailored to your specific requirements.

Whether you are embarking on a residential, commercial, or industrial project, our members are equipped to handle a wide range of construction needs. From architectural design to project management and execution, these companies are committed to delivering excellence in every aspect of construction.

To get started, simply click on the company that aligns with your project vision, and you'll find the information you need to make an informed decision. If you have any questions or require further details, don't hesitate to reach out directly to the companies. Their contact information is readily available for your convenience.

At Real Estate Database, we take pride in connecting you with reputable construction service providers, ensuring that your construction journey is smooth, efficient, and tailored to your unique needs. Thank you for choosing RED as your trusted resource for construction services in Kampala, Wakiso, and beyond.

This is a legal agreement ("Agreement") between you and the Real Estate Database (RED) and hence continuing to use the RED websites/plartforms implies that you agree to all the terms therein.

Please read the Agreement carefully before continuing with the use of the Real Estate Database services. By registering with the Real Estate Database, you become a member of the Service (a "Member"), and you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this Agreement (the "Terms") for as long as you continue to be a Member. If you do not agree to the terms, please do not register or continue using the Real Estate Database service. The terms are subject to change at any time and you are responsible to periodically review the agreement and any amendments, modifications or supplements thereto for possible changes.

Your membership may be terminated by you or the Real Estate Database at any time, for any reason, effective upon receipt of a one month (in advance) written notice from the other party. The Real Estate Database does reserve the right to immediately suspend or terminate your access to the Real Estate Database service, without notice, upon any breach of this Agreement by you, which is brought to the Real Estate Database's attention. The Real Estate Database does not issue refunds or credit of any sort for any unused time on the service, no matter the cause or reason. Your membership in the Real Estate Database service is for your sole, personal use. You may not authorize others to use your membership, and you may not assign or transfer your account to any other person or entity.

AS A MEMBER, YOU AGREE THAT:
You are solely legally responsible and liable to the Real Estate Database and to third parties for the content and the accuracy of information you publish or display or post on the Real Estate Database service and for your interactions with other Real Estate Database Members. the Real Estate Database reserves the right, but has no obligation, to monitor issues or disputes between you and other Members.

You will use the Real Estate Database service in a manner consistent with any and all applicable laws and regulations. You will not engage in listing, or solicitation of properties through the Service for which you have not received permission to do so. You will not post any material unrelated to the purchase or sale of properties. For example, you will not post photos or materials of a sexual or "adult" nature. the Real Estate Database reserves the right, but has no obligation, to reject or delete any material that does not comply with the foregoing. You are aware that you will receive and agree to accept periodic emails from the Real Estate Database, after registering or subscribing to the service, and these emails will be viewed as informational only and will not be viewed as "spam" emails. You agree that you will not make a claim against the Real Estate Database for the receipt of such informative emails.

You will not post, distribute or reproduce in any way any copyrighted material, trademarks, or other proprietary information without obtaining the prior consent of the owner of such proprietary rights and will defend and indemnify the Real Estate Database with respect thereto.

You will not post on the Real Estate Database service, or transmit to other Real Estate Database Members or Employees, any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, offensive sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, racially offensive, or illegal material, or any material that infringes or violates another party's rights (including, but not limited to, intellectual property rights, and rights of privacy and publicity).

Your company is a lawfully registered agency/entity; and thus has a trading license and operational premises with proper contact details which can be accessed on request within 48 hours. 

ACCESS TO PERSONAL DATA BY HOUSE HUNTERS
You acknowledge that inherent in the Real Estate Database concept is the ability of visitors to the website (house hunters) to access and use information you have posted on our site for the purpose of contacting you to purchase or sale of a home. For example, a website visitor will have access, among other things, to how many properties you have uploaded onto the Real Estate Database service, your e-mail address and other information of value to the visitor in assisting the purchase or sale of homes. You agree that such information you voluntarily entered into our database, including, without limitation, your e-mail address may be provided/displayed to the general public so as to contact you.

ONLINE CONTENT
The Real Estate Database does not represent any buyers, sellers, real estate sales agents or real estate brokers. We are an IT company and we simply act as a re-distributors of:- information, Opinions, advice, statements, offers, or other information or content made available through the Real Estate Database service. Brokers and their respective authors [and not of the Real Estate Database] are solely responsible for the content they upload and the Real Estate Database disclaims any and all liability with respect thereto. the Real Estate Database does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information on the service and neither adopts, endorses nor is responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, advice, or statement made. Under no circumstances will the Real Estate Database be responsible for any loss or damage resulting from anyone's reliance on information or other content posted on the Real Estate Database service, or transmitted to the Real Estate Database members.

INDEMNITY BY MEMBER; COVENANT NOT TO SUE
You will defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the Real Estate Database, its officers, directors, employees, agents and third parties, for any losses, costs, liabilities and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) relating to or arising out of your use of the Real Estate Database service, including any breach by you of the terms of this Agreement. You further covenant not to sue or make any claim against the Real Estate Database arising out of any information you obtain through the Real Estate Database, or your use of such information, including, without limitation, loss or injury arising from the acts of any third parties.

WARNING - PLEASE READ:
It is possible that other Real Estate Database Members or users (including unauthorized users, or "hackers") may post or transmit inappropriate materials on the Real Estate Database service and that you may be involuntarily exposed to such materials. It also is possible for others to obtain personal information about you due to your use of the Real Estate Database service, and that the recipient may use such information to harass or injure you. You understand and agree that the Real Estate Database is not responsible for the use of any personal information that you may choose to disclose as result of the Service.

PROPRIETARY RIGHTS
The Real Estate Database owns and retains proprietary rights to the Real Estate Database service and the contents or produts therein. The Service contains the copyrighted material, trademarks, and other proprietary information of the Real Estate Database and its licensors. In addition, other Members may post copyrighted information, which has copyright protection whether or not it is identified as copyrighted. Except for that information which is in the public domain or for which you have been given permission, you will not copy, modify, publish, transmit, distribute, perform, display, or sell any such proprietary information.

INFORMATION SUPPLIED BY MEMBER/span>
Subject to the Warning set forth above regarding unauthorized third party use, the Real Estate Database will keep confidential all information supplied by you to the Real Estate Database, including credit card numbers or other financial information, and shall use or disclose such information only for the purposes for which such information was collected, or as required by law. By posting information or content to any public area of the Real Estate Database, you automatically grant, and you represent and warrant that you have the unrestricted legal right to grant, to the Real Estate Database and to other Real Estate Database Members an irrevocable, perpetual, non-exclusive, fully-paid, worldwide license to use, copy, perform, display and distribute such information and content.

COMPLAINTS
To resolve a complaint regarding the Real Estate Database service, you should first contact the Real Estate Database Admin.

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
the Real Estate Database provides the Real Estate Database service on an "as is" basis and grants no warranties of any kind, express, implied, statutory, in any communication with the Real Estate Database or makes its representatives, or otherwise with respect to the service. the Real Estate Database specifically disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. the Real Estate Database does not warrant that your use of the Real Estate Database service will be secure, uninterrupted, always available, or error-free, or will meet your requirements.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
In no event will the Real Estate Database be liable (i) to you for any incidental, consequential, or indirect damages (including, but not limited to, damages for loss of data, loss of programs, loss of profits, cost of procurement of substitute services or service interruptions) arising out of the use of or inability to use the Real Estate Database service, even if the Real Estate Database or its agents or representatives know or have been advised of the possibility of such damages or (ii) to any person other than you. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the Real Estate Database's liability to you for any cause whatsoever, and regardless of the form of the action, will at all times be limited to the amount paid, if any, by you to the Real Estate Database for the service during the term of membership.

In addition, the Real Estate Database disclaims all liability, regardless of the form of action, for the acts or omissions of other members or users (including unauthorized users, or "hackers") of the Real Estate Database service.

COUNTRY BY COUNTRY VARIATIONS
Certain jurisdictions limit the applicability of warranty disclaimers and limitations of liability so the above disclaimers of warranty and limitations of liability may not apply to you.

GENERAL PROVISIONS
You agree that Ugandan law (regardless of conflicts of law principles) shall govern this Agreement, and that any dispute arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be subject to the courts located within Uganda. This Agreement, the contents of which are accepted and agreed to by you automatically and immediately upon your registration for the Real Estate Database service, contains the entire agreement between you and the Real Estate Database, regarding the use of the Service. This Agreement may be amended upon unilateral notice from the Real Estate Database to you or by a writing signed by you and an authorized official of the Real Estate Database. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the Terms will survive termination of your membership to the Service. If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid, the remainder of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.

COPYRIGHT POLICY
Termination of User Privileges for Infringement or Suspected Copyright Infringement:

We will terminate or panelize any user who uses this Site to unlawfully transmit copyrighted material without a license, express consent, valid defense or fair use exemption to do so. In particular, users who submit User Content to this Site, whether articles, images, stories, software or other copyrightable material, must ensure that the content they upload does not infringe the copyrights nor other rights of third parties (such as privacy or publicity rights). After notification by the copyright holder or its agent to us of a claimed infringement, we will terminate or panelize the infringing users. We may also in our sole discretion decide to terminate a user's rights to use or access to the Site prior to that time if we have a good faith belief that the alleged infringement has occurred or if the user has failed to abide by the general rules and procedures of the website.

If you believe that your copyright has been infringed through the use of this Site, please contact our Customer Care team immediately

All the property data within the RED property price guide (also known as RED Estimates) is real time (live) and also dynamic, ie it gets updated as soon as new properties are uploaded into the Real Estate Database (RED), it also (dynamically) allows you to select filters that are based on Category/Location and Bedrooms.

Average market values
Our property price guide (RED estimates) displays a visual representation of the average (typical) market value of properties for rent/sale in a specific location with a specific number of bedrooms over several years, the guide provides a graph with calculations based on historical data from 1000s of homes that are already in the database.

Stating point
The RED Estimates (RED property price guide) is a very helpful starting point in estimating a home's value, but it is not an official appraisal/valuation. The bar graph for the current year is automatically recomputed every time a new property is uploaded within the respective locations/bedrooms, so the data for the current year may fluctuate as new properties are uploaded into the RED.

Free tool
The RED Estimates property price guide is a free tool that will help you to view the change (trend) in prices of properties for sale and rent over a period of several years, each graph is based on number of bedrooms for houses within some of the most popular real estate locations.

Buying or selling
If you are buying or selling a property in any of the available locations then this guide will give you an idea about what the value of your property was or what its is or what it will be.

Better decisions
This data can also help you as a real estate player to make better decisions, refine your marketing activity, improve your customer relationships, and minimize risk at all levels.

Accuracy  Level
The accuracy of this guide depends on location and availability of data in an area. Some locations have deeply detailed information on homes such as number of bedrooms, bathrooms and square footage and others do not. The more data available, the more accurate the graphical values will be.

Your contribution is needed
If you are an agent or developer, you can contribute the data by uploading your properties directly into the RED so that they are part of the property statistics in Uganda, you can contact us on +256705162000 (Julius Czar), feel free to let us know how we can improve or how you can contribute even more.

A real estate commission agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions between a real estate agent and a seller for the sale or purchase of a property.

 

It establishes the commission rate, the duration of the agreement, and the responsibilities of both parties. To help real estate agents and sellers draft a commission agreement, we are providing a free to download sample real estate commission agreement template.

 

This template can be customized to suit your specific needs and requirements, so go ahead and adjust it then send it to the landlord or seller for printing and signing.

 

Click here to download a sample template.

THE LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT, 2022.

 

ARRANGEMENT OF SECTIONS

PART I - PRELIMINARY

Section

1. Application
2. Interpretation

PART II - TENANCY AGREEMENTS

3. Making of tenancy agreements.
4. Tenancy agreement of twenty five currency points or more to be in writing.
5. Landlord to give tenant copy of tenancy agreement

PART III - TERMS AND CONDITIONS IN TENANCY

Fitness for human habitation

6. Implied term as to fitness for human habi

Repairing obligations

7. Duty to keep premises in repair.
8. Exception to duty of landlord to repair premises.
9. Circumstances where tenant may repair pr mises.
10. Landlord responsible for taxes and rates.
11. Void terms and conditions in tenancy.

Section

PART IV - LIABILITY FOR UTILITY CHARGES

12. Utility charges for which tenant is liable.
13. Utilities charges for which landlord is liable.

PART V - DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS OF LANDLORDS AND TENANTS

14. Tenant not to use premises for unlawful purpose.
15. Tenant not to cause nuisance or interference.
16. Tenant not to damage premises or common areas.
17. Tenant to keep rented premises clean.
18. Tenant not to install fixtures or make alterations without consent.
19. Landlord to ensure quiet enjoyment.
20. Landlord not to refuse to rent on certain grounds.

PART VI - RENT AND SECURITY DEPOSIT

Rent

21. Tenant to pay rent.
22. Determination of rent under tenancy.
23. Accrual of rent.
24. Limit on rent in advance.
25. Receipts for rent.
26. Increase of rent.
27. Rent increase to take effect if tenant does not object or negotiate.
28. Decrease of rent in certain cases.
29. Failure to pay rent by tenant and claims for rent arrears.

Section

Security deposit

30. Security deposit.

PART VII - ASSIGNMENT OF TENANCY AND SUBLEASING OF PREMISES

31. Assignment of tenancy by tenant.
32. Subletting of premises.
33. Invalid assignment and subletting of premises.

PART VIII - TERMINATION OF TENANCY

Termination by landlord or tenant

34. Termination of tenancy to be in accordance with Act.
35. Termination by agreement.
36. Termination by vacation of premises with consent of landlord.
37. Termination of tenancy for specified time or event.
38. Termination after notice.
39. Termination by abandonment.
40. Termination upon death of sole tenant.
41. Tenant or landlord may challenge termination in court.
42. Termination notice not affected by certain factors.
43. Refusal by tenant to vacate premises after receipt of notice of termination.

PART IX - VACATION OF PREMISES, EVICTION AND RELATED MATTERS

44. Vacation of premises on termination of tenancy.
45. Unlawful eviction of tenant.

PART X - GENERAL

46. Landlord may charge fees for extra services.

Section

47. Reimbursement of costs by landlord or tenant.
48. Entry of rented premises by landlord.
49. Landlord and tenant may act through agent.
50. Amendment of Schedule.
51. Regulations.
52. Repeal of Cap. 231 and savings.

THE LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT, 2022.

An ACT to regulate the relationship of landlord and tenant; to reform and consolidate the law relating to the letting of premises; to provide for the responsibilities of landlords and tenants in relation to the letting of premises; and for related matters.

DATE OF ASSENT:

Date of Commencement:

BE IT ENACTED by Parliament as follows:

PART I- PRELIMINARY

1. Application

1. This Act applies to the letting of residential and business premises.
2. The Minister may, with the approval of Parliament, by statutory instrument, exempt particular premises from the operation of the Act.
3. Without limiting the general effect of subsection (2), this Act does not apply to the following arrangements:
   1. residence at an institution, whether public or private, where the residence is merely incidental to detention or to the provision of medical, religious, educational, recreational or similar services;
   2. residence in a hotel, motel, or other transient lodging; or
   3. occupancy of premises under a tenancy created or arising under the terms of a contract of employment or any premises entered into in relation to such a contract.

2. Interpretation

(1) In this Act unless the context otherwise requires—

"annoyance" in relation to a tenancy means the unwarranted, unreasonable, offensive or unlawful interference in the use or enjoyment of rented premises;

"assignment" means the transfer of the rights or interest in the tenancy from one person to another;

"business" includes trade, profession or employment and includes any activity carried on by a body of persons; whether corporate or unincorporate;

"business premises" in relation to a tenancy means premises occupied by the tenant for the purposes of a business carried on by him or her;

"court" means a court of competent jurisdiction and includes local council courts;

"currency point" has the value assigned to it in Schedule 1 to this Act;

"landlord" means a person who lets premises under a tenancy and includes his or her duly authorised agent or a person who is in lawful possession of the premises and has the right to let them;

"lease" includes a sublease;

"Minister" means the Minister responsible for housing;

"premises" means business or residential premises to which this Act applies;

"rent" in relation to a tenancy, means the amount paid to a landlord by a tenant to occupy premises and use facilities and services;

"rented premises" in relation to a tenancy to which this Act applies, means business or residential premises let under the tenancy;

"residential premises" means -

1. premises which are used solely as a home, residence, sleeping place by a tenant and includes housing estates, tenements, apartment buildings, mobile homes;
2. mixed-use premises which are used simultaneously for both residential purposes and to carry out a home-based business;

"services" in relation to a tenancy, means the use of water, light or power, conservancy, sewerage facilities, sweeper, watchman, telephone or other amenities or facilities available to the tenant except -

1. the supplying of means, and the right of access to any place or accommodation accorded to the tenant by reason of the tenant's occupation of the premises comprised in the tenancy;
2. capital expenditure on maintenance;

"tenancy" means a relationship created by a lease, agreement or assignment and includes a sub-tenancy but does not include a relationship between a mortgagor and mortgagee;

"tenancy agreement" means an agreement, in writing or otherwise, express or implied, under which a tenancy is created;

"tenant" means the person to whom premises are let under a tenancy;

"utilities" includes water, light or power, conservancy, sewerage facilities, sweepers, watchmen, telephone or other amenities or facilities available to the tenant.

(2) Notwithstanding anything in any other written law requiring the registration of tenancies, evidence of a tenancy may, for any of the purposes of this Act, be given in court, whether the tenancy is registered or not.

PART II - TENANCY AGREEMENTS

3. Making of tenancy agreements.
   1. A tenancy agreement may be;
      1. made in writing;
      2. by word of mouth;
      3. partly in writing and partly by word of mouth;
      4. in the form of a data message; or
      5. implied from the conduct of the parties,
         provided that where the parties execute a tenancy agreement, the landlord-tenant relationship between the parties shall be governed by the terms of the tenancy.
   2. A tenancy agreement in writing shall be in the form prescribed in schedule 2 to this Act, except that the parties may make some modifications to the prescribed form.
   3. Where a tenancy agreement is not in writing, the landlord shall keep a record
      1. of the particulars of the parties to the tenancy;
      2. of the premises comprised in the tenancy;
      3. in the case ofa non-citizen, ofthe details ofthe immigration status of the non-citizen; and
      4. of the details of the rent payable and the manner of payment.
   4. The landlord shall give the tenant a copy of the record kept under subsection (3) within fourteen days of the tenant taking vacant possession of the premises.
   5. A landlord shall not enter into a tenancy agreement—
      1. with an individual, unless the individual provides his or her national identification card or alien's identification card, or any other identification document; or
      2. with a legal person, unless that person provides details of registration or other form of incorporation.
   6. For the purposes of this section, "identification document" includes a national identification card, driving permit, passport or certified student identification card.
   7. This section shall not affect a tenancy agreement entered into under any other law requiring a tenancy agreement to be made in a specific manner.
4. Tenancy agreement of twenty five currency points or more to be in writing.
   A tenancy agreement of the value of twenty five currency points or more shall not be enforceable by action unless
   1. the agreement is in writing or in form of a data message; or
   2. the party against whom enforcement is sought admits that the agreement was entered into.
5. Landlord to give tenant copy of tenancy agreement.
   A landlord shall, immediately after a tenancy agreement is signed by the landlord and tenant, give a copy of the tenancy agreement to the tenant.

PART III - TERMS AND CONDITIONS IN TENANCY

Fitness for human habitation

6. Implied term as to fitness for human habitation.
   1. Where a tenancy is for the letting of residential premises there is implied
      1. a condition that the premises are fit for human habitation at the commencement of the tenancy; and
      2. an undertaking that the exterior of the premises and common areas shall be kept by the landlord, fit for human habitation, during the tenancy.
   2. Premises are not fit for human habitation under subsection
      1. where the premises do not meet the requirements of the Public Health Act or the Building Control Act, 2013.
   3. Without limiting the general effect of subsection (1), in determining whether premises are fit for human habitation, regard shall be given to the condition of the premises in respect of repair, stability, internal arrangements, natural lighting, ventilation, water supply, drainage and sanitary conveniences and facilities for preparation and cooking of food and for the disposal of waste water.
   4. Except in case of an emergency, a landlord may, at reasonable times of the day after giving twenty-four hours' notice in writing or otherwise to the tenant, enter premises for the purpose of viewing their state and condition.
      
      Repairing obligations
      
      
7. Duty to keep premises in repair.
   1. Subject to section 8, there is implied in every tenancy a term that the landlord shall keep the premises maintained in good repair save that the obligation shall extend to the exterior parts of the premises and common areas..
   2. In determining the standard ofgood repair under subsection
      1. regard shall be had to the age, character and prospective life of the premises and the locality in which the premises are situated.

8. Exception to duty of landlord to repair premises.
   1. The duty of the landlord to maintain the premises in good repair does not apply to repair of damage caused to the premises by the tenant's negligence or failure to take reasonable care.
   2. Where a tenant damages the premises or common areas, the landlord shall serve the tenant with a notice to repair the damage.
   3. The notice under subsection (2) shall be in the form prescribed by the Minister by regulations made under this Act.
   4. Except in the case of any emergency, where the landlord gives the tenant notice to repair under this section and the tenant does not repair the damage within fourteen days after the notice is given, the landlord may repair the damage at the expense of the tenant.
   5. After the landlord has effected repairs to the premises under subsection (4), the landlord shall serve the tenant with particulars of the cost of the repairs including the relevant supporting documentation to evidence the cost of the repairs.
   6. The tenant shall reimburse the landlord within a period of fourteen days after the notification by the landlord or the costs of the repairs may be deducted from any rent advance received by the landlord.

9. Circumstances where tenant may repair premises.
   1. A tenant may carry out repairs to the premises where
      1. the nature of the repairs required is urgent; or
      2. the tenant has taken reasonable steps to arrange for the landlord to carryout repairs and the tenant is unable to get the landlord to carry out the repairs after serving the landlord with fourteen days' notice of the need for and cost of repairs.
   2. For the purposes of subsection (1) urgent repairs includes
      1. repairs relating to burst water services;
      2. blocked or broken toilet systems;
      3. serious roof leaks;
      4. gas leaks;
      5. dangerous electrical faults;
      6. flooding or serious flood damage;
      7. serious storm or fire damage;
      8. failure or breakdown of any essential service or appliance provided by a landlord or agent for hot water, water, cooking, heating or laundry;
      9. failure or breakdown ofthe gas, electricity or water supply;
      10. an appliance, fitting or fixture that is not working properly and causes a substantial amount of water to be wasted;
      11. a serious fault in a lift or staircase; or
      12. any fault or damage in the premises that makes the premises unsafe or insecure.
   3. Where the tenant carries out repairs under subsection (1), the tenant shall immediately after carrying out the repairs give the landlord
      1. written notice of the repairs carried out;
      2. particulars of the costs incurred; and
      3. relevant supporting documentation to evidence the costs of repair.
   4. The costs of repair incurred by the tenant under this section shall be reasonable costs of repair at the prevailing market rates.
   5. The landlord shall, within fourteen days after receiving the notice, reimburse the tenant the costs of the repair.
   6. Where the landlord does not reimburse the tenant, the tenant shall recover the costs incurred for the repairs from the rent due and payable immediately after the repairs are carried out.
      
      
10. Landlord responsible for taxes and rates.
    1. There is implied in every tenancy a term that the landlord is responsible for the payment of all taxes and rates imposed by law in respect of the premises.
    2. Where a tenant pays any taxes or rates in respect of the premises, the landlord shall indemnify the tenant for the amount paid by the tenant.
       
       
11. Void terms and conditions in tenancy.
    1. Subject to section 3(1), a term in a tenancy, express or implied, is void where it purports to exclude, restrict or modify, or has the effect of excluding, restricting or modifying any provision of this Act.
    2. A term or condition in a written tenancy or any other agreement made under this Act that requires a party to a written tenancy agreement to bear any fees, costs or charges incurred by the other party in connection with the preparation of the tenancy agreement is void.

PART IV - LIABILITY FOR UTILITY CHARGES.

12. Utility charges for which tenant is liable.
    1. A tenant is liable for all charges in respect of the supply or use of electricity, gas, oil and similar services in respect of the tenant's occupation of rented premises that are separately metered, except the installation costs and charges in respect of the initial connection of the service to the rented premises.
    2. A tenant is liable for—
       1. the cost of all water supplied to the rented premises during the tenant's occupancy, if the cost is based solely on the amount of water supplied and the premises are separately metered; or
       2. that part of the charges based on the amount of water supplied to the premises during the tenant's occupation if the cost of water supplied is only partly based on the amount of water supplied to the premises and the premises are not separately metered.
    3. Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (2), a landlord may agree with the tenant to take over liability for any costs or charges for which the tenant is liable under subsection (1) or (2).
    4. An agreement under subsection (3) shall be in writing and signed by the landlord and tenant.
13. Utilities charges for which landlord is liable.
    1. A landlord is liable for
       1. the installation costs and charges in respect of the initial connection to rented premises of any electricity, water, gas, sanitation, sewerage or other utility service;
       2. all charges in respect of the supply or use of electricity, gas or oil by the tenant at rented premises that are not separately metered;
       3. all charges arising from a water supply service to separately metered rented premises that are not based on the amount of water supplied to the premises;
       4. all costs and charges related to a water supply service to and water supplied to rented premises that are not separately metered; and
       5. all charges related to the supply of sewerage services or the supply or use of the drainage services to or at the rented premises.
          
          
    2. In the case of sewerage disposal charges, the landlord and tenant may agree on the contribution to be made by the tenant.

PART V—DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS OF LANDLORDS AND TENANTS

14. Tenant not to use premises for unlawful purpose.
    A tenant shall not use the premises or permit the use of the rented premises for any unlawful purpose.

15. Tenant not to cause nuisance or interference.
    1. A tenant shall not use the rented premises or permit the use of the rented premises in any manner that causes a nuisance to any occupier of neighbouring premises.
    2. A tenant shall not—
       1. use the rented premises or common areas;
       2. permit his or her visitors to use the rented premises or common areas; or
       3. otherwise permit the use of the rented premises, in a manner that causes interferance with the reasonable peace, comfort or privacy of any occupier of neighbouring premises.

(2) For the purposes of this section "nuisance" includes any activity, condition or situation that interferes with another person's use or enjoyment of his or her premises.

16. Tenant not to damage premises or common areas.
    1. A tenant shall take care not to damage the rented premises or the common areas.
    2. A tenant who becomes aware of any damage to the rented premises or the common areas shall immediately give notice to the landlord specifying the nature of the damage.
       
       
17. Tenant to keep rented premises clean.
    A tenant shall keep the rented premises in a reasonably clean condition, except where the landlord is responsible under the tenancy agreement for keeping of the premises in that condition.

18. Tenant not to install fixtures or make alterations without consent.
    1. A tenant shall not, without the consent of the landlord, install any fixtures on the rented premises or make any alteration, renovation or addition to the rented premises.
    2. A tenant who has installed fixtures on or renovated, altered or added to the rented premises, whether or not with the landlord's written consent, shall before terminating the tenancy—
       1. restore the premises to the condition they were in immediately before the installation, renovation or addition; fair wear and tear excepted; or
       2. pay to the landlord an amount equal to the reasonable cost of restoring the premises.
    3. Subsection (2) does not apply where the tenancy agreement otherwise provides or where the landlord and tenant otherwise agree.
    4. For the purposes of this section, "fixture" means personal property of the tenant that is attached to the premises or part of the premises so as to be regarded as an irremovable part of the premises.
       
       
19. Landlord to ensure quiet enjoyment.
    A landlord shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that the tenant has quiet enjoyment of the premises during the tenancy.

20. Landlord not to refuse to rent on certain grounds.
    A landlord shall not refuse to rent premises to a person on the grounds of sex, race, colour, ethnic origin, tribe, birth, creed or religion, social or economic standing, political opinion or disability.

PART VI - RENT AND SECURITY DEPOSIT

Rent

21. Tenant to pay rent.
    1. A tenant shall pay the rent on the date and in the manner agreed upon by the landlord and tenant.
    2. The landlord shall issue a receipt upon payment of rent by the tenant.
    3. The receipt issued in sub section (2) shall be in the form prescribed in regulations issued by the Minister.
    4. A landlord letting out a business premise in a city or a municipality shall provide a tenant with his or her bank account number into which all rent payments may be deposited.
       
       
22. Determination of rent under tenancy.
    1. The rent payable for any premises under a tenancy shall be determined by mutual agreement of the parties to the tenancy.
    2. Except where the parties otherwise agree in their tenancy agreement, all rent obligations or transactions shall be expressed or settled in Uganda shillings.
       
       
23. Accrual of rent.
    For the purposes of this Act, rent under a tenancy accrues from day to day and is recoverable or refundable accordingly.

24. Limit on rent in advance.
    1. Subject to subsection (2), a landlord shall not require a tenant -
       
       1. in the case of tenancy of more than one month, to pay rent more than three months in advance; or
       2. in a case of tenancy of less than one month, to pay rent more than two weeks in advance.
    2. Subsection (1) does not apply where the tenant and landlord mutually agree that the tenant pays the rent beyond the period specified.
       
       
25. Receipts for rent.
    1. A landlord who receives a payment of rent from a tenant shall give a written receipt to the person making the payment—
       1. immediately; where the payment is made in person; or
       2. where the payment is not made in person and a receipt is requested at the time of making the payment; within five working days of receiving the payment.
    2. A receipt issued under subsection (1) shall be in the prescribed form and shall include, among others, the amount of and period for which rent is paid.
    3. A landlord shall keep a record of all receipts of payments of rent by the tenant.
       
       
26. Increase of rent.
    1. Except where the parties otherwise agree in their tenancy agreement, a landlord shall not increase rent at a rate of more than ten percent annually or such other percentage as may be prescribed by the Minister, by statutory instrument.
    2. A landlord shall give a tenant at least sixty days' notice, in the prescribed form, of a proposed increase in rent.
    3. A landlord under a fixed term tenancy shall not increase the rent before the term ends, unless the agreement provides for a rent increase within the fixed term.
    4. A landlord shall not increase the rent payable under a tenancy at intervals of less than twelve months.
    5. An increase of rent is invalid if it contravenes this section.
       
       
27. Rent increase to take effect if tenant does not object or negotiate.
    Where a tenant who does not object to a rent increase or reach an agreement with the landlord on the increase to be effected and the rent increase is in accordance with this Act, the tenant is taken to have accepted the rent increase.

28. Decrease of rent in certain cases.
    1. A landlord shall decrease the rent charged to a tenant where the landlord ceases to provide any agreed service with respect to the tenant's occupancy of the premises.
    2. A decrease in rent under subsection (1) shall be proportionate to the decrease of the services.
       
       
29. Failure to pay rent by tenant and claims for rent arrears.
    1. Where a tenant defaults in paying rent and is in arrears, the landlord may apply to a court of competent jurisdiction to recover the rent owed.
    2. Where the default in subsection (1) continues for a period of more than thirty days, the landlord shall be entitled to re-enter the premises and take possession in the presence of an area local council official and the police.
    3. The landlord's right of re-entry in subsection (2) shall not prejudice the landlord's right to recover the rent arrears.
    4. The Judicature (Small Claims Procedure) Rules, 2011 apply to any application to recover rent arrears under this section but only if the claim does not exceed the amount specified for small claims in the Judicature (Small Claims Procedure) Rules, 2011.

Security deposit

30. Security deposit.
    1. A landlord shall require a tenant to pay a security deposit for the purposes of securing the performance by the tenant of his or her obligations under a tenancy.
    2. A landlord shall not require more than one security deposit or require the payment of, or receive, under a security deposit, an amount exceeding the rent payable for one month's occupancy of the premises to which the agreement relates or one-twelfth of the rent for one year's occupancy of the premises to which the agreement relates, whichever is the lesser.
    3. The landlord shall specify to the tenant in writing the terms and conditions under which the security deposit or any part of it may be withheld by the landlord upon termination of the tenancy.
    4. Without limiting the general effect of subsection (3), a security deposit shall not be withheld on account of normal wear and tear resulting from ordinary use of the premises.
    5. The landlord shall provide the tenant with a written receipt for the security deposit.
    6. Where, during a tenancy, the status of landlord is transferred to another person, the security deposit shall be transferred and the successor landlord shall notify the tenant of the change.
    7. Where, during the tenancy, the tenant's premises are foreclosed upon and the tenant's deposit is not transferred to the successor owner after the foreclosure sale or other transfer of the property from the foreclosed-upon owner to a successor, the foreclosed-upon owner shall promptly refund the full deposit to the tenant immediately after the foreclosure sale or transfer.

PART VII—ASSIGNMENT OF TENANCY AND SUBLEASING OF PREMISES

31. Assignment of tenancy by tenant.
    1. A tenant shall not assign a tenancy without the written consent of the landlord.
    2. A landlord shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the assignment of a tenancy.
       
       
32. Subletting of premises.
    1. A tenant shall not sublease the whole or any part of the premises without the written consent of the landlord.
    2. A landlord shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the subleasing of the whole or any part of the premises.

33. Invalid assignment and subletting of premises.
    An assignment of a tenancy or subleasing of the whole or any part of the premises by a tenant without the consent of the landlord is invalid and immediately terminates the tenancy.

PART VIII—TERMINATION OF TENANCY

Termination by landlord or tenant

34. Termination of tenancy to be in accordance with Act.
    A tenancy shall not be terminated except in accordance with this Act, or with the tenancy agreement.
    
    
35. Termination by agreement.
    1. A tenancy may be terminated by agreement of the landlord and tenant.
    2. An agreement under subsection (1) shall state the date on which the tenant shall vacate the premises.

36. Termination by vacation of premises with consent of landlord.
    1. A tenancy terminates where the tenant vacates the rented premises with the consent of the landlord.
    2. The consent given under subsection (1) may be written or oral and once given is irrevocable.
       
       
37. Termination of tenancy for specified time or event.
    1. Where a tenancy is
       1. for a fixed term, the tenancy terminates on the date specified for termination; or
       2. stated to terminate on the occurrence of an event, the tenancy terminates on the occurrence of that event.
    2. A tenant whose tenancy terminates under subsection (1) shall immediately vacate the premises.
       
       
38. Termination after notice.
    1. A tenancy terminates where a landlord or tenant gives notice of termination of the tenancy in accordance with this Act, or with terms of the tenancy agreement.
       1. In a residential tenancy, notice of termination of a tenancy required under this Act shall be as follows—
       2. in the case of a weekly tenancy; seven days' notice;
       3. in the case of a monthly tenancy; thirty days' notice; and
    2. in the case of a tenancy from year to year; sixty days' notice.
    3. A landlord and tenant may agree to a period of notice exceeding the period specified in subsection (2).
    4. A term or condition in a tenancy providing for a lesser period of notice than that specified in subsection (2) is void.
    5. The issuance of notice of termination under sub-section (1) shall not extinguish a landlord or tenant's duties and rights under the tenancy agreement in respect of which such notice has been issued.
       
       
39. Termination by abandonment.
    1. A tenancy is considered terminated by abandonment where the tenant leaves the premises permanently without terminating the tenancy agreement.
    2. Termination by abandonment shall not prejudice the rights of the landlord to recover accrued rent and charges.
    3. Where the landlord has reasonable cause to believe that the tenant has abandoned the premises, the landlord shall give notice of fourteen days to the tenant of the landlord's intention to terminate the tenancy.
    4. Where the tenant does not reply to the notice or does not give a satisfactory explanation after the fourteen days' notice in subsection (2), the tenancy terminates.
    5. The Minister may, by regulations, prescribe the procedure for dealing with abandoned tenancies.
    6. For purposes of subsection (1), a tenant is taken to have permanently abandoned the premises where—
       1. the tenant has been absent from the premises for at least thirty consecutive days without notifying the landlord and the rent has not been paid; or
       2. at least fifteen days have passed since the rent was due and the rent remains unpaid and it appears to the landlord that the tenant has vacated the premises without the rent being paid.

40. Termination upon death of sole tenant.
    1. Where a tenant who is a single occupant of premises dies, the tenancy terminates at the earliest of the following dates—
       1. twenty-eight days after the landlord is given written notice of the death of the tenant by the legal personal representative or next of kin of the tenant;
       2. twenty-eight days after the landlord has given notice to vacate to the legal personal representative or next of kin of the tenant;
       3. a date agreed in writing between the landlord and the legal personal representative or next of kin of the tenant; or
       4. the date specified as the termination date of the tenancy by the court on the application of the landlord under subsection
    2. Where a landlord is unable to give notice to vacate under subsection (l)(b), the landlord may apply to the court for an order to terminate the tenancy.

41. Tenant or landlord may challenge termination in court.
    1. A tenant or landlord may challenge a termination of the tenancy agreement in court.
    2. Where the court finds that a termination challenged under this section was not justified or is not in accordance with this Act, the court may order the reinstatement of the tenancy or award damages or such other remedy the court considers appropriate.
    3. A tenant is liable to pay rent while he or she challenges a termination notice.
    4. A tenant or landlord who is dissatisfied with the decision of the court under subsection (2) may appeal to the appropriate court.
       
       
42. Termination notice not affected by certain factors.
    A notice of termination of a tenancy by a landlord is not affected by the landlord's acceptance of arrears of rent or compensation for the use or occupation of the premises after the landlord gives the notice of termination of the tenancy to the tenant.

43. Refusal by tenant to vacate premises after receipt of notice of termination.
    Where a tenant does not vacate the premises on the date specified in the notice of termination or upon breach, the landlord may re-enter the premises and take possession in the presence of the area local council officials and the police.

PART IX - VACATION OF PREMISES, EVICTION AND RELATED MATTERS

44. Vacation of premises on termination of tenancy.
    Where a tenancy is terminated in accordance with this Act, the tenant shall vacate the premises on the date specified in the notice of termination or such other date specified for vacation of the premises.
    
    
45. Unlawful eviction of tenant.
    1. A landlord shall not, except in accordance with this Act, or the terms of the tenancy agreement, evict a tenant from the premises or require, compel or attempt to require or compel the tenant to vacate the premises.
    2. Where a landlord evicts a tenant from the premises or requires, compels or attempts to require or compel the tenant to vacate the premises in contravention of this Act or the terms of the tenancy agreement, the tenant shall be entitled to pursue appropriate relief from a court of law, or an equivalent to three months' rent payable.
    3. Where a court finds a landlord liable under subsection (2), the court shall, in addition to any penalty imposed, order the landlord to compensate the tenant for any damages arising from the unlawful eviction.

PART X GENERAL

46. Landlord may charge fees for extra services.
    1. A landlord may charge a service fee for any extra services provided to a tenant including services relating to security, conservancy, sanitation and other amenities.
    2. For the purposes of this section, a "service fee" means an amount payable by a tenant as part of or in addition to the rent which is payable, directly or indirectly, for services, repairs, maintenance, improvements or insurance or the landlord's costs of management, and service fee varies or may vary according to the relevant costs.
    3. The relevant costs referred to in subsection (2) are the costs or estimated costs incurred or to be incurred by or on behalf of the landlord in connection with the matters for which the service fee is payable.

47. Reimbursement of costs by landlord or tenant.
    1. Where a landlord pays for anything for which the tenant is liable under this Act, the tenant shall reimburse the landlord within fourteen days after receiving a written request for reimbursement together with a copy of the receipt or other evidence of the costs incurred by the landlord.
    2. Where a tenant pays for anything for which the landlord is liable under this Act, the landlord shall reimburse the tenant within fourteen days after receiving a written request for reimbursement and a copy of the receipt or other evidence of payment.
    3. Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply ifthere is an agreement to the contrary.
       
       
48. Entry of rented premises by landlord.
    1. A landlord has a right to enter the premises together with any person who is necessary to achieve the purpose of the entry after giving the tenant written notice of at least twenty hours.
    2. A landlord who enters premises in contravention of subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding one hundred currency points.
    3. Notwithstanding subsection (1), in case of an emergency, a landlord may enter the premises without notice.

49. Landlord and tenant may act through agent.
    1. A landlord or tenant may appoint an agent to effect any transactions that may be required under this Act.
    2. Where a landlord or tenant appoints an agent, the particulars and the scope of the appointment shall be in writing and shall be made available to the tenant or landlord, as the case may be.
    3. For purposes of subsection (1), the transactions that an agent may perform include
       1. marketing the premises;
       2. drawing up tenancy agreements;
       3. collection of rent;
       4. arranging repairs and maintenance; or
       5. managing and maintaining common areas.

50. Amendment of Schedule.
    The Minister may, with the approval of Parliament, by statutory instrument, amend Schedule 1 to this Act.
    
    
51. Regulation
    1. The Minister may, by statutory instrument, make regulations generally for the better carrying into effect any of the provisions of this Act.
    2. Without limiting the general effect of subsection (1), regulations under that subsection may
       1. prescribe codes of practice to be complied with by landlords and tenants;
       2. Act Landlord and Tenant Act 2022 (b) prescribe the forms to be used for purposes of this Act;
       3. regulate the use of agents in landlord tenant relations including the licensing of agents, and the duties and responsibilities of agents;
       4. regulate mixed-use premises including specifying the nature of businesses that may be carried out in premises which are also used for human habitation;
       5. prescribe penalties in respect of the contravention of the regulations not exceeding seventy-two hundred currency points or three years imprisonment or both;
       6. prescribe penalties for continuing and repeated offences;
       7. or prescribe fees for anything done under this Act.

52. Repeal of Cap. 231 and savings.
    1. The Rent Restriction Act, Cap. 231 is repealed.
    2. Notwithstanding subsection (1 any statutory instrument made under the Rent Restriction Act which is in force immediately before the commencement of this Act, shall remain in force until revoked under this Act.

Click here to download a free PDF copy of the Landlord and Tenant Act 2022

Real estate is full of jargon (“DOM”, “HOA”, “pre qual”, etc), and it can add layers of confusion to an already convoluted process. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, we created this resource to help you learn the vocabulary.

We’ve compiled an ever growing list of real estate terms you should know to help you better understand the process and plan your move.

Commingling

Commingling is the act of mixing funds together, and conversion refers to the act of using funds for a purpose other than what they were originally intended for. For example, if the landlord were to deposit security deposit funds into the same bank account that holds his rental income, they would be commingling funds.

Adjustable rate mortgage (ARM)

With ARM loans, interest rates can change after an initial fixed rate period as they adjust based on the interest rate index the ARM is tied to (e.g., LIBOR, COFI, etc.). This loan type is less predictable than a traditional fixed rate mortgage, but it can potentially yield lower interest rates during certain periods.

Appraisal

An appraisal is required to gather the estimated value of a piece of real estate. During the home sale, the mortgage lender sends out an appraiser to get a professional opinion of the value of the property. This helps the lender decide if the property is worth the amount of the loan the potential buyer is seeking.

Appraisal contingency

An appraisal contingency is a clause that allows a buyer to dissolve a purchase agreement if a home’s appraised value is less than the sale price.

An appraiser hired by the buyer’s lender evaluates the value of the home to ensure that the loan is secured by an appropriate home value. Lenders want to ensure they are not “over paying” for a property.

As is

A property marketed in “as is” condition usually indicates that the seller is unwilling to perform most if not all repairs. It could also mean that it is priced “as is”, which is typically lower than market pricing in the area.

Finally, “as is” is in the condition at the time the offer was written, and should something happen to the property from the time the offer was written to the closing time which alters that condition, then that property is no longer “as is”, as it was, and should be brought back to its original “as is” condition at the time of offer, at the cost of seller. Or in the alternative, the seller should release the buyer from their obligation to purchase and refund the monies spent by the buyer, such as earnest money.

Backup offer

When a buyer is interested in purchasing a property that is already under contract with someone else, that buyer has an opportunity to submit a “backup offer”, in case the first transaction falls apart. A backup offer must still be negotiated and any monies, such as earnest money, submitted, to confirm it is the next offer in line. There can only be one backup offer legally, as you cannot have a backup to the backup.

Blind offer

When a buyer makes an offer on a property they haven’t seen, even when it was possible to see it, that offer is considered a “blind offer”. It is most commonly used in a highly competitive area and/or circumstance, and used as an attempt to be first and win quickly.

Buyer’s agent/listing agent

A buyer’s agent, also known as a selling agent, is a licensed real estate professional whose job is to locate a buyer’s next property, represent their interests by negotiating on behalf of that buyer to obtain the best price and purchasing scenario for that buyer as possible. This agent is a fiduciary for the buyer.

The listing agent, also known as the seller’s agent, is a licensed real estate professional whose job is to market the seller’s property, and to represent the seller’s best interest by negotiating on behalf of the seller to secure the best price and selling scenario as possible. This agent is a fiduciary for the seller.

Buyer and listing agent commissions are each a percentage of the contract price in each sale.

Covenants, conditions & restrictions (CC&Rs)

Usually, these are the rules and regulations placed on real property by a homeowner’s association (HOA), a neighborhood association, a developer, or a builder that sets forth any requirements and limitations of what a homeowner is allowed to do with the property. It may also include monthly and/or annual fees or special assessments.

Conventional sale

A conventional sale is when the property is owned outright (has no mortgage remaining) or the owner owes less on their mortgage than what the market indicates the owner could sell their property for. Such conventional sales are often smoother transactions than non conventional sales, such as foreclosures, probate related sales and short sales.

Closing

Closing is when the home sale is considered final, which typically includes all parties’ signatures on all required documents, all monies conveyed, and when a lender is involved, with full lender’s approval. For some markets across the nation, recording the deed with the county clerk’s office is the ultimate and final step of closing. Once all of these items are completed, then a buyer’s access to the property is then provided, and the buyer is considered the new homeowner.

Closing costs

Closing costs are an assortment of fees, including fees charged by: a lender, the title company, attorneys, insurance companies, taxing authorities, homeowner’s associations, real estate agents, and other closing settlement related companies. These closing costs are typically paid at the time of closing a real estate transaction.

Days on market (DOM)

DOM is defined as the number of days from the date on which the property is listed for sale on the Real Estate Database (RED) to the date when the seller has signed a contract for the sale of the property with the buyer.

A related metric is the average DOM for homes sold in a market during a specified period. A low average DOM indicates a strong market that favors sellers. A high average DOM signals a weak market that favors buyers. Seasonality can also be a factor.

Homes generally appear to sell faster in at the end of the year, since you often have more people from the diaspora looking to purchase and sell during the time when they are back for christmas holiday.

Debt to income ratio

Debt to income, or DTI, ratio is a number used by mortgage lenders which is determined by the total of your debt expenses, plus your monthly housing payment, divided by your gross monthly income, and multiplied by 100. This helps lenders determine affordability based off of their available loan programs, and allows them to estimate how much you can afford to pay monthly for a mortgage.

Lenders typically look for borrowers who pay 28 percent, or less, of their total monthly income on housing, and less than 36 percent of their income on debt payments, according to Investopedia. If either percentage is on the higher side, and you want to buy a home, you might need to adjust your budget.

Due diligence

A due diligence period of time might be available in the purchase agreement, which is a time frame provided to a buyer to fully examine a property, often by hiring experts to inspect the property, perform tests, etc., so that a buyer may decide on how to proceed.

A buyer might also be afforded an opportunity to renegotiate the contract based off of their findings or possibly even to terminate within a specified time period, in order to not be considered in default of the contract. Due diligence allows a buyer to fully understand what they are buying.

Earnest money deposit (EMD)

An earnest money deposit (EMD), sometimes referred to a “good faith deposit”, is the initial funds that a buyer is asked to put down once a seller accepts the buyer’s offer. It shows not only that the buyer is serious about buying, but that they are also willing to put their money where their mouth is.

The amount of the EMD can vary between 1 to 5 percent of the sales price. The EMD is often held by an escrow company, or as otherwise provided for under the purchase and sale agreement (PSA).

Escrow holder

The escrow holder is the agent and depositary (impartial third party) who collects the money, written instruments, documents, personal property, or other things of value to be held until the happening of specified events or the performance of described conditions, usually set forth in mutual, written instructions from the parties.

Equity

This is the investment a homeowner has in their home. To calculate equity, take the market value of the home and subtract any mortgages or liens against the property. The amount leftover is the amount of equity you have in the home.

It’s important to build equity as homeowners can leverage this financial asset to obtain loans to help finance items such as home repairs, or to pay off higher interest debt.

Hard money loan

Hard money loans are a way to borrow without using traditional lenders. Hard money lenders finance the loan based on the property in question, not on your credit score, and typically require a large down payment and short repayment schedule.

Home sale contingency

A home sale contingency is for a buyer to indicate to a seller that part of their condition to purchase the seller’s property relies on the buyer’s ability to finalize a close on their current property. This is often negotiated with a clause in a contract or with an addendum to a contract. An example of how such a contingency can be used would be if a buyer needs to sell their property in order to have the down payment required on the purchase of the new property, or would rather use their sale proceeds instead of their savings to make the down payment. Depending on the market, it could hamper negotiations with a seller when a contingency is part of the picture.

Inspection

An inspection happens when buyers pay a licensed professional inspector to visit the home and prepare a report on its condition and any needed repairs. The inspection often happens as part of the due diligence period, so buyers can fully assess if they want to buy a particular home as is, or ask the seller to either complete or pay for certain repairs.

Inspection contingency

Also known as a “due diligence contingency,” the inspection contingency is a clause sometimes offered in a purchase agreement that grants buyers a predetermined amount of time during escrow to perform any necessary inspections.

Land lease

Traditionally, when you purchase a home, you own the home and the land the property is built on. There are some circumstances that involve a land lease, which means you would own the home while paying rent to the landowner for the land.

Loan contingency

A loan contingency is a clause or addendum (also known as a mortgage contingency) in an offer contract that allows a buyer to back out of a deal and keep their deposit if they are unable to secure a mortgage with specified terms during a fixed period of time.

Mortgage pre approval letter

Getting a mortgage pre approval letter is important because it gives home buyers an idea of what they can afford. A mortgage pre approval letter is issued by the lender and identifies the terms, loan type and loan amount the buyer qualifies for after checking the buyer’s debt to income ratios along with cash on hand and credit history.

Many sellers or their agents require a mortgage letter with any home offer that isn’t all cash, since it acts as proof the buyer has been qualified to get financing.

Multiple Listing Service (or MLS)

An MLS is a database that allows real estate agent and broker members to access and add information about properties for sale in an area. When a home is listed for sale, it gets logged into the local MLS by a listing agent. Buyer’s agents often check the MLS to see what’s on the market and what similar homes have sold for. According to RealEstaeDatabase.net, there is only one MLS in Uganda.

Offer/counter offer

Buyers make a formal offer on the home they want to purchase. The offer can be the full list price, or what you and your agent deem a fair market value.

The buyer’s agent puts the offer in writing, asks you to sign it, and then submits it to the seller’s agent. The seller might immediately accept it, in which case it becomes the parties’ purchase contract, or may make what’s known as a counter offer. It’s the art of negotiation, recorded in paperwork.

Option period

A termination option period (known as “option period”) is a form of a due diligence period, however it is only available to a buyer who separately purchases this right for a negotiable amount of money and for a negotiable period of time.

When a buyer has purchased this right to terminate, they are strongly encouraged to get all of their inspections and other due diligence performed during this option time frame, although doing so during this timing is not required.

If the buyer chooses to terminate the contract within the option period, then the earnest money shall be released back to the buyer.

Pre approval

Getting pre approved requires home buyers to fill out an application that allows a lender to determine their financial situation, including their debt to income ratio, ability to repay and credit worthiness. Once this is in hand, the lender can give the buyer a letter stating the exact loan amount they have been pre approved for along with the total sales price they are approved for.

The letter will usually indicate both the buyer’s estimated down payment along with the potential interest rate. Because it is much more thorough than a pre qualification letter, most sellers prefer to see a pre approval letter with an offer.

Preliminary report

A preliminary report reveals any issues with a title that need to be dealt with by the seller in order to deliver a clear title. It gives details such as ownership history, liens, and easements. The title company gathers this report by searching existing property records.

This report is required for a title insurance company to issue a title insurance policy. Most lenders require borrowers to purchase title insurance coverage to protect their interest in a property. It’s customary in many areas for a seller to pay for this policy, although it is a negotiable item.

Pre qualification

A pre qualification is a lender’ estimate of the amount a home buyer can expect to be approved for during the loan process. Getting pre qualified is a quick assessment by a lender of the buyer’s financial situation based solely off of what a buyer tells a lender, and not based with any proof or verifications.

Principal

The principal balance of a mortgage loan is the amount of money owed to the lender, not including interest. Say you borrow Ugx 300,000,000. That’s the principal of the loan, or what you borrowed to buy the home. Buyers pay the principal plus interest each month, although calculated on a daily basis for most loan type. Payments nearly always go toward interest first, then toward paying down the principal.

Probate sale

A probate sale happens when a homeowner dies without writing a will or leaving a property to someone. In such situations, the probate court would authorize an estate attorney, or other representative, to hire a real estate agent to sell the home. The total process will usually be a bit more complicated and therefore will take more time than a conventional sale.

Proof of funds

When you make an offer, sellers will require you to submit proof of funds. If you’re buying a house with a mortgage, it shows them that you have the cash available for your down payment and closing costs. If you’re paying all cash, your proof of funds shows you actually have the money.

The following documents qualify as proof of funds:

    Original or online bank statements with bank letterhead
    Copy of a money market account balance with bank’s logo or letterhead
    Certified financial statements, such as an income or cash flow statement that’s been signed off on by an accountant
    An open equity line of credit

Purchase and sale agreement (PSA)

A purchase and sale agreement is commonly referred to a written contract between the buyer and seller, which outlines the terms of the parties to sell and purchase real property.

When a home is “under contract” it usually signifies that the Buyer and Seller have formalized their commitment to sell and purchase the real property.

Real estate owned (REO)

Real estate owned is a designation given to properties which are owned by a lender due to an unsuccessful foreclosure sale at auction.

REO properties can sometimes present an opportunity for a buyer to be purchased for below market value as most banks would prefer to reinvest the proceeds, rather than waste time marketing the property for an extended period.

Additionally, the bank will often market the property “as is” meaning they are unwilling to make any repairs to the property, which can make financing tricky.

Realtor

An actively licensed real estate agent and Realtor are often used interchangeably, although not every real estate agent is a Realtor. A Realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

A Realtor promises to uphold the Code of Ethics of the association and to hold each other accountable for when serving the public, customers, clients and each other, with a high standard of practice and care.

Rent back

Rent back, or leaseback, refers to an arrangement whereby the buyer, who is now the new homeowner, agrees to allow the seller, the now tenant, to stay in the house beyond the close of escrow. The terms are negotiated prior to the situation occurring and will often involve a lease deposit, a daily rental rate, and a length of time allowable.

The rate can sometimes be determined by looking at the new homeowner’s monthly out of pocket for the mortgage as well as the possible inconvenience this may cause them in delaying their own move, all factoring into a daily rate.

Seller concession

Sellers may offer concessions to incentivize buyers to purchase the home, or sweeten the deal.

Concessions are most readily seen as a contribution towards the buyer’s closing costs, up to certain limitations and approvals by a buyer’s lender, which ultimately leaves more money in a buyer’s pocket when all is said and done.

Seller disclosure

A seller’s disclosure is a disclosure by the seller of information about the property, or which could affect a buyer’s decision to purchase the property, all of which to the best of the seller’s knowledge.

A seller must also indicate items which are not specific to the property itself but related to a person’s enjoyment of the property, such as pest problems, property line disputes, knowledge of major construction projects in the area, military base related noises or activities, association related assessments or legal issues, unusual odors caused by a nearby factory, or even recent deaths on the property as permitted by law.

Short sale

In a short sale, the property is being sold for less than the debt secured by the property. Short sales will require the approval of the seller’s lender(s) as the proceeds of the sale will be just “short” of the amount owed; most lenders’ processes of approving short sales are long and drawn out, requiring more time to close than a traditional sale.

Subject to inspection

Subject to inspection, or “submit offers subject to inspection”, means that the seller is not allowing the property to be viewed without an accepted offer. Some common reasons for this are privacy concerns of the occupants or uncooperative tenants.

The thought of buying a property sight unseen can be daunting for the traditional buyer, which can be used to your advantage as this will inevitably drive overall interest down.

It’s also not as bad as it seems as, under the standard purchase contract, you will have an inspection period, during which you can cancel the sale with no penalty.

Tenancy in common (TIC)

Tenancy in common describes a type of joint ownership of a property, whether a single family property or a commercial building. The tenants in common all own the property, but in different ratios.

Depending on the property type will determine the ease or difficulty in securing financing. Also to note, tenants in common do not have the right to survivorship (the surviving owners do not get to split up the deceased tenant’s property interest), and instead, the deceased tenant’s ownership interest/percentage actually falls to their own estate, as defined by their will or the governing law.

Termite report

Termites are small, pale, soft bodied insects that feed on wood, and can be highly destructive. The WDI (wood destroying insect) report, also known as the Termite Report, includes a diagram of the property and the location of active and/or previous WDI activity.

The report can also and sometimes include what may be necessary to resolve such possible infestations such as spraying or tenting. The WDI report will rarely if ever include the cost for such items, as that may be considered a conflict of interest.

Title search

A title search examines public records for the history of the home, including sales, purchases, and tax and other types of liens.

Generally, a title examiner will conduct a search using title plants, and sometimes the county records, to see who is listed as the record owner of the property. Such information, along with any liens or encumbrances that are recorded against the property, will be listed in the Preliminary Report for the parties to review prior to the close of escrow.

Trust sale

A trust sale means that the home is being sold by a trustee of a living trust – and not a private party. More often than not this is because the original homeowner has passed away, or has placed their assets in a living trust.

The trustee may not be as emotionally attached to the property as a traditional owner, which could translate to them accepting a less attractive offer as the trustee may prefer to offload the property.

Acceleration clause

Also known as an acceleration covenant, this is a contract provision requiring the borrower to repay all of their outstanding loan to a lender if certain requirements outlined by the lender aren’t met.

 

Active contingent

When a seller accepts an offer from a buyer, that offer is contingent upon the buyer’s ability to meet certain conditions before finalization of the sale. Contingencies might include the buyer selling their home, receiving mortgage approval, or reaching an agreement with the seller on the home inspection.

 

Active under contract

A house is listed as “active under contract” when the seller has accepted an offer with contingencies, but still wants the house to be listed as active. In this situation, the seller is also likely accepting backup offers in case their current offer fails to meet its contingencies.

 

Addendum

If a buyer or seller want to change an existing contract, they might add an addendum outlining the specific part of the contract they’d like to adjust and the parameters of that change. The rest of the contract stays the same, regardless of the addendum.

 

Adjustable rate mortgage (ARM)

The interest rate for an adjustable rate mortgage changes periodically. You might start with lower monthly payments than you would with a fixed rate mortgage, but fluctuating interest rates will likely make those monthly payments rise in the future.

 

Adjustment date

This is the date your mortgage begins to accrue interest (though you might not have made a mortgage payment yet). The adjustment date usually falls on the first day of the month after mortgage funds are advanced or dispersed to the borrower.

 

Amortization

Amortization is the schedule of your mortgage payments spread out over time. In real estate, a buyer's amortization schedule is usually one monthly payment scheduled over a 15 or 30 year period of time.

 

Annual percentage rate (APR)

The annual percentage rate (APR) is the amount of interest charged on your loan every year.

 

Appraisal

An appraisal on your home is an unbiased estimate of how much a home is worth. When buying a home, the lender requires an appraisal by a third party (the appraiser) to make sure the loan amount requested is accurate. If the home’s appraised value is below what the buyer has offered, the lender may request the buyer pay the difference in cost.

 

Appreciation

Appreciation is the amount a home increases in value over time. To calculate a home’s likely appreciation rate, add one to the annual appreciation rate, raise this to a power equal to the number of years you’d like to estimate, then multiply that by the current value of the property.

 

Assessed value

An assessment is used to determine how much in taxes the owner of a property will pay. An assessor calculates the assessment of a home’s value by looking at comparable homes in your area and reviewing an inspection of the home in question.

 

Assignment

An assignment is when the seller of a property signs over rights and obligations to that property to the buyer before the official closing.

 

Assumable mortgage

Assumption is when a seller transfers all terms and conditions of a mortgage to a buyer. The buyer takes on the seller’s remaining debt instead of taking out a new mortgage of their own.

 

Balloon mortgage

Instead of a traditional fixed rate mortgage in which the owner pays on the loan in installments, a balloon mortgage is paid in one lump sum (e.g., the balloon payment). It’s usually associated with investment or construction projects that are issued for the short term and don’t require collateral.

 

Bi weekly mortgage

A bi weekly mortgage payment means a homeowner pays their monthly mortgage payment in two monthly installments instead of one. With a bi weekly mortgage, you'll make 26 payments per year instead of 12. The end result is that you'll pay the equivalent of 13 monthly payments each year lowering interest rates and your principal balance at a faster pace.

 

Bridge loan

A bridge loan is a short term loan a homeowner takes out against their property to finance the purchase of another property. It’s usually taken out for a period of a few weeks to up to three years.

 

Broker

A broker has passed a broker’s license exam and received education beyond what the state requires of real estate agents. They understand real estate law, construction, and property management. Real estate agents are required to work under the supervision of a broker.

 

Buydown

A buydown is a mortgage financing technique lowering the buyer’s interest rate for anywhere from a few years to the lifetime of the loan. Usually, the property seller or contractor makes payments to the mortgage lender lowering the buyer’s monthly interest rates, which, in turn, lowers their monthly payments.

 

Call option

A call option is a contract giving one party the right to buy and another party the right to sell a piece of property at a future time and specific price.

 

Cash out refinance

A cash out refinance, also known as a cash out refi, is when a homeowner refinances their mortgage for more than it’s worth and withdraws the difference in cash. To be eligible for this kind financing, a borrower usually needs at least 20% in equity.

 

Clear title

Also known as a "just title," "good title," or a "free and clear title", a clear title doesn’t have any kind of lien or levy from creditors. It means there's no question of legal ownership of the property such as building code violations or bad surveys.

 

Closing

Closing is the final stage of the real estate transaction. The date is agreed upon when both the buyer and seller go under contract on the home. On the closing date, the property is legally transferred from seller to buyer.

 

Closing costs

Closing costs are usually comprised of between 2 5% of the total purchase price of the home. These fees are paid on or by the closing date.

Co borrower

If a buyer is having trouble getting approved for a loan, they can elicit the help of a co borrower. This person is usually a family member or friend who's added to the mortgage and guarantees the loan. They're listed on the title, have ownership interest, sign loan documents, and are obligated to pay monthly mortgage payments if the buyer is unable to.

 

Commission

Real estate commission is generally 5 6% of the home’s sale price. That commission is usually split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents and is paid by the seller at the time of closing.

 

Common area assessments

If you pay a monthly fee towards a Homeowners Association (HOA), part of that fee likely goes toward a common area assessment to maintain an area open to the community.

Community property

Community property refers to property acquired by a married couple and owned equally by both spouses.

 

Comparable sales

Comparable sales are used by an appraiser to establish how much a home is worth based on what other similar homes in the area have sold for recently. Only homes that have legally closed count as a comp and most lenders and insurance providers require appraisers to use at least three closed sales.

 

Construction loan

A construction loan or self build loan is a short term loan used to finance the construction of a home or real estate project. This type of loan covers project costs before long term funding can be financed.

Contingency

If a property is contingent, or the contract contains a contingency, certain events must transpire or the contract can be considered null. A contingency might be that the home must past an appraisal or receive a clean inspection.

The sale of a home could also be contingent on the buyer selling their home by a specified date. If either the buyer or seller fail to meet the expectations of the contingency, either party can exit the contract.

 

Contingent vs. pending

When a property is contingent, it means the owner has accepted an offer but certain contractual expectations must be met or the offer will be void. If all contingencies are met, the property changes status to “pending.” While contingent offers are still considered active listings, pending offers are taken off the market and other offers will not be entertained.

 

Conventional mortgage

A conventional mortgage is a loan not guaranteed or insured by the federal government. These borrowers usually make larger down payments (at least 20%), don’t require mortgage insurance, and are at a lower risk of defaulting on their home loan payment.

 

Convertible ARM

A convertible adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) allows buyers to take advantage of low interest rates by receiving a loan at a “teaser” loan interest rate.

Their monthly mortgage payment stays the same, but interest rates fluctuate (usually every six months). The borrower has the option of converting their ARM to a fixed rate mortgage, but there are generally fees for the switch.

 

Cost of funds index (COFI)

A cost of funds index is an average of the regional interest expenses acquired by financial institutions. It’s used to calculate variable rate loans.

 

Deed

A housing deed is the legal document transferring a title from the seller to the buyer. It must be a written document and is sometimes referred to as the vehicle of the property interest transfer.

 

Deed in lieu of foreclosure

A deed in lieu of foreclosure is a document transferring the title of a property from a homeowner to the bank that holds the mortgage. A homeowner might submit a deed in lieu of foreclosure if the bank has denied them a loan modification or short sale. However, the bank can deny the request for a deed in lieu.

 

Default

If a homeowner defaults on their loan, it means they have not paid the sum they agreed to. Typically, a mortgage default means the homeowner hasn’t made a home loan payment in 90 days or more.

 

Delinquency

A mortgage is considered delinquent when a scheduled payment is not made. If a payment is more than 30 days late, a lender might begin collection or foreclosure proceedings.

 

Discount points

Discount points are also known as mortgage points. They’re fees homebuyers pay directly to the lender at the time of closing in exchange for reduced interest rates which can lower monthly mortgage payments.

 

Down payment

The down payment is the amount of cash a homebuyer pays at the time of closing. Typical home loans require a 20% down payment. Some conforming loans will accept a 5% down payment.

 

Due on sale clause

A due on sale clause protects lenders against below market interest rates. It's a contract provision requiring the seller of the property to repay the mortgage in full when the property is next sold. It is also called an acceleration clause.

Earnest money deposit

Earnest money is a deposit (usually 1 2% of the home’s total purchase price) made by a homebuyer at the time they enter into a contract with a seller. Earnest money demonstrates the buyer's interest in the property and is generally deducted from your total down payment and closing costs.

 

Easement

An easement grants someone else the legal right to use another person’s land or property while leaving the title in the owner's name.

 

Eminent domain

The right of eminent domain gives the government the ability to use private property for public purposes. It's only exercisable when and if the government fairly compensates the owner of the property.

Encroachment

When a property owner violates the rights of a neighbor by building or adding on to a structure that extends onto a neighbor’s land or property line, that is called encroachment.

 

Encumbrance

A real estate encumbrance is any claim against a property that restricts its use or transfer, including an easement or property tax lien.

 

Equity

Home equity is the part of your property you actually own. While you do “own” your home, your mortgage lender has interest in the property until it’s paid off.

To calculate your home’s equity, subtract your outstanding loan balance from the current market value of your property. Home equity will increase as you pay down your loan or the market value of your home increases.

Escrow

Escrow is part of the homebuying process. It happens when a third party holds something of value during the transaction. Most often, the “value” the third party holds onto is the buyer’s earnest money check. When the transaction is complete (usually at closing), the third party will release those funds to the seller.

 

Examination of title

A title examination reviews all public records tied to a property. It generally reviews all previous deeds, wills, and trusts to ensure the title has passed cleanly and legally to every new owner.

Exclusive listing

An exclusive listing is used to motivate an agent to sell a property quickly within a specific number of months. If they meet that goal, the agent gains a commission regardless of how a buyer is found.

 

Fair Credit Reporting

The Fair Credit Reporting ensures fairness, accuracy, and privacy of personal information contained in files maintained by credit reporting agencies. The goal of this act is to protect consumers from having misinformation used against them.

Fair market value

A property’s fair market value is its accurate valuation in a free and open market under the condition that buyers and sellers are knowledgeable about the asset, acting in their best interests, and free of undue pressure to complete the transaction.

Fee simple

Fee simple refers to the most common type of property ownership. It means the owner’s rights to the property are indefinite and can be freely transferred or inherited when the owner chooses. It is most often associated with single family homes, as condominiums and townhomes are purchased with covenants, conditions, and restrictions.

Fixed rate mortgage

A fixed rate mortgage is one of the most common types of loans. It comes with an interest rate that stays the same for the lifetime of the loan, and provides the borrower with more stability and predictability over the lifetime of their loan.

While mortgage payments can fluctuate as property taxes and homeowner’s insurance change, many consumers prefer the fixed rate mortgage for its long term reliability.

 

For sale by owner

Homes listed as for sales by owner (FSBO) are being sold without the help of a real estate agent. The biggest benefit to the seller is they avoid paying commission fees but there are few benefits to the buyer.

 

Foreclosure

If a homeowner doesn’t make a mortgage payment (usually, for more than 90 days), foreclosure is a legal process during which the owner forfeits all property rights.

If they are unable to pay off outstanding debt on the property or sell it via short sale, the property enters a foreclosure auction. If no sale is made there, the lender takes control of the property.

 

Home Equity Conversion Mortgage

The Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) is an FHA reverse mortgage program enabling homeowners to withdraw equity on their home through either a fixed monthly payment, a line of credit, or a combination of the two.

Home equity line of credit

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) provides a revolving credit line that can be helpful in paying for large expenses or consolidating higher interest rate debt on loans like credit cards.

 

Home inspection

A home inspection is carried out by an objective third party to establish the condition of a property during a real estate transaction. An inspector will report on such things as a home’s heating system, the stability of the foundation, and the condition of the roof. The inspection is meant to identify major issues that might affect the value of the home and the stability of your and your lender’s investment and return.

Homeowner’s association

A homeowner’s association (HOA) is usually found when you purchase a condominium, townhome, or other development property. To purchase the home, you must also join the HOA and pay monthly or yearly HOA fees.

These fees can cover common area maintenance, repairs, and general upkeep. The more amenities your building offers, the higher the HOA fees typically are.

Homeowner’s insurance

When you purchase a home, it's also necessary to purchase homeowner’s insurance to cover any losses or damages you might incur, such as natural disaster, theft, or damage.

It also protects the homeowner from liability against any accidents in the home or on the property. Insurance payments are usually included in your monthly mortgage payments.

 

Judicial foreclosure

Judicial foreclosures require all foreclosures go through the court system to confirm the debt is in default before putting the property up for auction. The goal of judicial foreclosures is to protect property owners from corrupt lenders.

 

Jumbo loan

Conforming loan limits cap the dollar value that can be backed by government sponsored programs. A jumbo mortgage exceeds these conforming loan limits, which are tied to local median home values.

Qualifications for these loans are more stringent and the loans themselves are manually underwritten to mitigate risk to the lender.

 

Lease option

A lease option is like rent to own for real estate. It gives the lessee the ability to lease property with the option to buy. It includes a legal agreement with a monthly rental amount due, while also including an option to buy the property for a predetermined price at any time during the length of the agreement.

 

Lender

In real estate, the lender refers to the individual, financial institution, or private group lending money to a buyer to purchase property with the expectation the loan will be repaid with interest, in agreed upon increments, by a certain date.

 

Lien

A property lien is unpaid debt on a piece of property. It's a legal notice and denotes legal action taken by a lender to recover the debt they are owed. It can come from unpaid taxes, a court judgement, or unpaid bills and can slow down the homebuying process when unattended.

 

Life cap

A life cap refers to the maximum amount an interest rate on an adjustable rate loan can increase over the lifetime of the loan. A life cap is also known as an absolute interest rate or interest rate ceiling and keeps interest rates from ballooning too high over the term of the loan.

 

Loan officer

Residential loan officers, or mortgage loan officers, assist the homebuyer with purchasing or refinancing a home. Loan officers are often employed by larger financial institutions and help borrowers choose the right type of loan, compile their loan application, and communicate with appraisers.

 

Loan origination

Loan origination is the process during which a borrower submits a loan application and a financial institution or lender processes that application. There is usually an origination fee associated with this process.

 

Loan servicing

Loan servicing is a term for the administrative aspects of maintaining your loan, from the dispersal of the loan to the time it’s paid in full.

Loan servicing includes sending the borrower monthly statements, maintaining payment and balance records, and paying taxes and insurance. Servicing is usually carried out by the lender of the loan, typically a bank or financial institution.

 

Loan to value

The loan to value (LTV) ratio is the mortgage loan balance divided by the home’s value. It shows how much you’re borrowing from a lender as a percentage of your home’s appraised value.

The higher your LTV, the riskier you’ll appear during the loan underwriting process because a low down payment denotes less equity or ownership in your property making you more likely to default on your loan.

 

Lock in period

The period of time in which a borrower cannot repay their loan in full without incurring a penalty fine by the lender.

 

Mortgage

A mortgage is the agreement between a borrower and a lender giving the lender the right to the borrower’s property if the borrower is unable to make loan payments (with interest) within an agreed upon timeline.

 

Mortgage banker

A mortgage banker works directly with a lending institution to provide mortgage funds to a borrower. They can only obtain funds from a specific institution and are responsible for each part of the mortgage process, including property evaluation, financial due diligence, and overseeing the application process.

 

Mortgage broker

A mortgage broker shops several lenders, acting as a middle man between lending institutions and the borrower. A broker can compare mortgages from several different institutions, giving the borrower a better deal.

 

Mortgage insurance

If a homebuyer makes a down payment of less than 20% of the purchase price of a home or is the recipient of an FHA or USDA loan, they’ll usually be required to pay mortgage insurance. It lowers the risk of a lender giving you a loan, but it also increases the cost of the loan.

 

Multiple Listing Service (MLS)

An MLS is a suite of regional databases containing their own listings. Each database has its own listings, requires agents to pay dues for access, and allows agents to share listings across regions without paying dues to each one. It is widely considered the most comprehensive listing service available.

Negative amortization

Amortization refers to the process of paying off a loan with regular payments so the amount you owe on the loan gradually decreases.

Negative amortization happens when the amount you owe continues to rise, regardless of regular payments, because you’re not paying enough to cover the interest.

No cash out refinance

A no cash out refinance is a type of loan used to improve the rate the borrower pays on the loan. It might also shorten the lifetime of a loan to benefit the borrower.

In a no cash out refinance, the borrower refinances an existing mortgage for equal to or less than the outstanding loan balance. The goal is to lower interest rates on the loan or change certain terms of the mortgage.

 

No cost mortgage

A no cost mortgage is a type of refinancing in which the lender pays the borrower’s loan settlement costs and extends a new loan usually in exchange for the borrower paying higher interest rates.

The mortgage lender then sells the mortgage to a secondary mortgage market for a higher price because of the high interest rate.

 

Note rate

The note rate is the interest rate stated on a mortgage note. It is also commonly referred to as the nominal rate or face interest rate.

 

Original principal balance

The original principal balance is the amount owed on a mortgage before the first payment has been made.

 

Origination fee

The fee a borrower pays a lender to cover the costs of processing their loan application.

 

Owner financing

Owner financing (also known as seller financing) takes place when a borrower finances the purchase of a home through the seller, bypassing conventional mortgage lenders and financial institutions.

 

Pending

A sales is considered “pending” if all contingencies have been met and the buyer and seller are moving toward closing. At this point, it’s unlikely the sale will fall through, and the buyer or seller risk losing the earnest money if they walk out on the deal at this point.

 

Per Diem

Per diem or “per day” fees are charged if a loan isn’t approved by the date the loan was scheduled to be completed. These charges are payable to the lender during closing.

 

PITI

PITI stands for principal, interest, taxes, and insurance, and refers to the sum of each of these charges, typically quoted on a monthly basis.

These costs are calculated and compared to the borrower’s monthly gross income when approving a mortgage loan. A borrowers PITI should generally be less than or equal to 28% of their gross monthly income.

 

Planned unit development

A planned unit development (PUD) is a housing community made up of single family residences, townhomes, and condominiums as well as commercial units.

PUDs offer many common areas owned by the HOA and amenities beyond what normal apartment buildings or townhomes offer, including tennis courts and outdoor playgrounds.

 

Pre approval

Before submitting an offer on a home (or even engaging with a real estate agent) you’ll likely be required to get pre approved. This means a lender has checked your credit, verified your information, and approved you for up to a specific loan amount for a period of up to 90 days.

 

Pre qualification

Unlike pre approval, pre qualification is more of an estimate of how much you can afford to spend on a home.

 

Prime interest rate

The prime interest rate is typically awarded to a U.S. bank’s best customers. It’s the best available loan rate and is usually three points above the federal funds rate: the rate banks charge each other for overnight loans.

 

Principal

The principal of a loan is the amount of money owed on that loan. As you make monthly mortgage payments, your principal in theory goes down.

The amount of interest you pay on a monthly loan will affect how much of your monthly mortgage payment goes to paying down the principal. A high interest rate means you’ll pay less on the principal, meaning you’ll pay more on your loan over time.

 

Purchase agreement

A purchase agreement demonstrates a buyer’s intent to purchase a piece of property and a seller’s intent to sell that property. The document outlines the terms and conditions of a sale and holds each party legally accountable to meeting their agreement.

 

Purchase money mortgage

A purchase money mortgage, also known as owner or seller financing, is issued to the buyer by the seller of a home during the purchase transaction.

It is done to bypass a typical mortgage broker or lending channel and allows the buyer to assume the seller’s mortgage.

 

Quitclaim deed

A quitclaim deed is a document transferring ownership of property from one party to another. It transfers the title of the property but only transfers what the seller actually owns.

If two people own a home jointly, one person could only transfer their half of the property via quitclaim. This type of transaction is commonly used when property is being transferred between family members not using traditional real estate channels.

 

Rate lock

A rate lock allows borrowers to lock in an advantageous interest rate before a real estate transaction closes. A rate lock allows the borrower to lock in that interest rate for a specific period of time protecting them from market fluctuations.

 

Real estate agent

A real estate agent is licensed to negotiate and coordinate the buying and selling of real estate transactions. Most real estate agents must work for a realtor or broker with additional training and certification.

 

Real estate owned

Real estate owned (REO) refers to property owned by a bank, government agency, or other lender. Homes typically become real estate owned after an unsuccessful foreclosure auction or short sale.

 

Real Estate Settlement Procedures

The Real Estate Settlement Procedures requires lenders to provide disclosures to borrowers informing them of real estate transactions, settlement services, and relevant consumer protection laws.

Its goal is to regulate settlement costs, prohibit specific practices such as kickbacks, and limits the use of escrow accounts.

 

Refinance

Refinancing replaces an existing loan with a new one. Debt is not eliminated when a borrower refinances. Instead, it typically offers better terms, including a lower interest rate, lower monthly mortgage payments, or a faster loan term.

 

Right of first refusal

If a third party buyer offers to buy or lease a property owner's asset, the right of first refusal ensures the property holder is allowed a chance to buy or lease the asset under the same terms offered by the third party before the property owner accepts the third party offer.

 

Right of ingress or egress

The right of egress is a person’s legal right to exit a property. The right of ingress is the right to enter a property. It is generally used in rental or easement situations in which the tenant or person to which easement has been granted needs access to a shared driveway, a private road to the property, etc.

 

Right of survivorship

The right of survivorship is employed most often when there is joint ownership or tenancy of a property. It ensures that the surviving owner automatically receives the deceased owner’s share of the property becoming the sole owner of the property.

 

Sale leaseback

A sale leaseback occurs when a buyer closes on a home and then leases back tenancy to the seller. This usually occurs when the seller needs more time to vacate the home, in which case, the buyer becomes a sort of landlord and receives payment from the seller for every day they remain in the home.

 

Second mortgage

A second mortgage is when a property owner borrows against the value of their home. They are also commonly referred to as HELOCs and draw on the market value of the home to provide the borrower with funds to use however they wish. They are granted in a lump sum or a line of credit that can be paid back using rate choices that help plan payments.

 

Secured loan

A secured loan is backed by the borrower's assets, including cars, a second home, or other large items that can be used as payment to a lender if the borrower is unable to pay back the loan.

 

Seller carry back

A seller carry back is financing in which the seller acts as a bank or financial institution financing some or all of the transaction. The buyer will sign a promissory note agreeing to pay a specific amount (like a mortgage) to the seller, and the seller transfers the title to the new owner.

If the buyer is unable to make their monthly payments at any time, the seller can legally foreclose and take back the property.

 

Servicer

A mortgage servicer manages the daily administrative work around a loan, including processing loan payments, responding to borrower inquiries, and tracking principal and interest paid.

 

Short sale

A short sale occurs when a homeowner sells their property for less than what’s owed on the mortgage. A short sale allows the lender to recoup some of the loan that's owed to them but must be approved by the lender before the seller moves forward.

 

Title

A home’s title represents the rights to the property. Those rights are transferred from the seller to the buyer during a real estate transaction and give the buyer legal rights to the property upon closing.

 

Transfer of ownership

In real estate, transfer of ownership refers to transfer of a property’s deed and title from the seller to the buyer at closing.

 

Transfer tax

Transfer tax is a transaction fee charged upon the transfer of a property’s title. It is imposed by the state, county, and municipal authority where the transaction is taking place and is based on the property’s value and classification.

Typically, the seller is responsible for paying real estate transfer tax, unless otherwise agreed upon during the transaction.

 

Treasury index

The treasury index is published by the Federal Reserve Board and based on the average yield of Treasury securities. Financial institutions often use this index as the basis for mortgage notes.

 

Under contract

A home is “under contract” when a seller has accepted an offer from a buyer but the transaction has not yet closed.