Glossary

clear title

A clear title is a signal that a property can be purchased without worrying about old liens or owners coming back to assert claims to the property. This status is also referred to as an 'insurable title," since the property owner can get title insurance to protect against losses if there was an error in checking the title history; and as a "marketable title," since having a clear title facilitates marketing and selling a property.

community development block grant (cdbg)

A Federal entitlement program created under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. CDBG) is administered under HUD’s Community Planning and Development Office and aims to improve communities through activities including production and preservation of affordable housing, improved community facilities and services, and other neighborhood revitalization and economic development opportunities.

community development financial institution (cdfi)

A CDFI is a specialized financial institution that promotes economic development in struggling urban and rural areas underserved by traditional financial institutions. CDFIs provide a variety of financial products and services in their target markets, including mortgage financing for low-income and first-time homebuyers, financing for rehab of affordable housing, and commercial loans and investments to small start-up or expanding businesses in low-income areas. The Department of Treasury certifies CDFIs.

contributing structure

A building or structure in historic district that generally has historic, architectural, cultural, or archeological significance. (preservationnation.org)

glossary

Reclaiming Communities through Vacant Property Revitalization