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V-cap A specially shaped piece of ceramic tile used at the edge of a counter to trap liquids. |
VA (Veterans Administration) A key program of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Veterans Administration allows most veterans to purchase a house without a down payment. |
VA loan A loan through the Veterans Administration program, which allows most veterans to purchase a house without a down payment. |
valley The angled intersection between two roof planes where water collects and runs off the roof. Valleys are often protected with special metal flashing because they must handle heavy water flow without leaking. |
valuation The estimated worth or price. The act of valuation by appraisal. |
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vapor barrier A material such as plastic that prevents the passage of moisture. |
variable interest rate A loan rate that moves up and down based on factors including changes in the rate paid on bank certificates of deposit or Treasury bills. |
variable rate An interest rate that changes with fluctuations in such indexes as the U.S. Treasury bill index. |
variable rate mortgage (VRM) A loan with an interest rate that hinges on factors such as the rate paid on bank certificates and Treasury bills. |
vaulted ceiling An elongated half-cylinder that arches above the floor. |
veneer A thin facing material that is applied over a structural base. A veneered door, for example, may have a hollow or solid wood core and a thin surface layer of fine hardwood. |
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vent A pipe that allows air to flow in a drainage system. |
ventilation The process of replacing stale air with fresh air, usually by circulation through a series of vents or a mechanical system such as an air conditioner. |
verification of deposit Part of the loan process, in which a lender will ask a borrower’s bank to sign a statement verifying the borrower’s account balances and history. |
verification of employment Part of the loan process, in which a lender asks the borrower’s employer for confirmation of the borrower’s position and salary. |
vestibule A small entrance hall or room. |
Veterans Administration (VA) A key program of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Veterans Administration allows most veterans to purchase a house without a down payment. |
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Victorian style An architectural style that dates from the mid-19th century. |
vinyl-clad windows Wood windows sheathed in vinyl on the outside. |
violation An act, deed, or condition contrary to the permissible use of property. |
Visqueen A brand of polyethylene sheet used to cover the ground in a crawl space. |
voidable contract A contract that may seem to be valid, but can be rejected by either one of the parties. |
volt The unit used to measure electrical force between two points in a circuit. The current at most receptacles in the United States and Canada is approximately 120 volts. |
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volt-ohm meter An electrical test device used for making a variety of electrical measurements, including voltage and current. |
voltage The pressure behind the flow of electricity. |
voluntary lien A lien that a homeowner willingly gives to a lender. |