Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA)  
U.S. federal law requiring that lenders afford people equal chance of getting credit without discrimination based on race, religion, age, sex etc

Equity
The market value of the property less the homeowner's unpaid mortgage balance and any outstanding liens or other debts against the property.

Equity Build Up
The natural increase in the amount of equity an owner has in a property, accumulated through market appreciation and debt repayment.

Errors And Omissions Insurance
An insurance policy taken out by appraisers to cover their liability for any mistakes made during the appraisal process.

Error page
A web page stating an error message such as "File Not Found"

Escheat
Reversion of property to the State by reason of failure to find persons legally entitled to hold or lack of heirs. The State must try to find heirs.

Escrow
The deposit of instruments and/or funds into the care of a neutral third party with instructions to carry out the provisions of an agreement or contract once all instruments and/or funds have been deposited. Many closings are handled by escrow agents. In this situation, the seller deposits the deed and the buyer deposits the funds necessary with the escrow agent. Once all requirements of the purchase contract are in the control of the escrow agent, the money and deed are distributed accordingly.

Escrow Payment
That portion of a mortgagor's monthly payment held in trust by the lender to pay for taxes, mortgage insurance, hazard insurance, lease payments and other items as they become due. Also known as "impounds" in some states.

Escrow Reimbursement
The buyer reimburses the seller for the current balance of his escrow (or impounded) funds.

Estate at Will
Possession of property at the discretion of the owner.