Appraised Value A property's value as determined by the sale amounts of comparable properties. The current appraised value is usually the property's current market value.

Assessor's Parcel Number The Assessor's identification number for a specific property. Also referred to as the account number, folio number and UPC in different regions.

Assessed Value The value placed on the property by the county assessor's office based on the property's appraised value. The assessed value generally increases annually at a rate from 1%-2%. However, this is not necessarily the property's current market value.

Census Tract A geographical area containing approximately 1,000-2,000 properties of a similar nature. As areas change over time due to changes in population density and other factors, the census tract boundaries may change as well.

Cost Per Square Foot A property's cost per square foot, normally determined by dividing the property's sale price by the square footage of the structure. However, this figure can be misleading. Cost per square foot does not take lot size into account and should only be used as a basis of comparison when looking at properties of similar lot size, characteristics and date sold.

Document Number The number assigned to a recorded document by the County Recorder's Office.

Easement A limited right in a piece of land owned by another. This entitles the holder of the right to some use of the land. For instance, if Barney owns a property that is completely surrounded by Fred's property, Barney can get an easement to build a driveway from his property to the main road.

Homeowner Exemption This exemption provides the homeowner with up to a $7,000 exemption on the annual assessment of their owner-occupied residence. This can equate to roughly $70 per year in property tax savings..

Improvements Any structures that are built on a piece of land. For instance, a house built on a vacant lot is considered an improvement.

Land Value The actual value of the land on which a property sits. This does not include the value of the structure.

Legal Description The description of the property as documented by the County Recorder. Usually identifies physical location in terms of tract and lot.

Tax Amount The annual property tax as determined by the assessed value and tax rate.

Tax Rate Area An area within a county that is taxed at a particular rate, usually resulting from the number of public services in the area such as fire and police protection.

Title All of the elements that constitute the legal right to own, possess, use control, enjoy and dispose of real estate.

Title Company The entity that insures the title for the owner of the property.

Title Insurance Protects the owner or other insured, such as a lender, against loss or impairment of title.

Transfer Date The date the sale of the property is recorded.

Use Code The code that indicates how a property is being used.