Definition of "Straight note"

Scott Lincicome real estate agent

Written by

Scott Lincicomeelite badge icon

Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Lifestyle Property Partners

The term straight note in real estate is also known as a promissory note. A straight note is defined as a loan agreement that generally requires payments of interest only over the term of the note. At the end of the term, the entire debt balance becomes payable in a single balloon payment. However, a straight note can also only require one payment that includes the amount of its principle to which the accrued interest is added that is also paid at the end of the loan in one balloon payment.

While other types of installment notes require monthly principal payments, a straight note can only demand interest payments. The principal payment is only covered at the end of the loan.

What is a Straight Note in Real Estate?

In real estate transactions, a straight note can also be referred to as a sleeper trust deed because interest usually accrues unpaid and is only required with the lump sum payment of the principal. However, if the principal is not required for a year or two, periodic accruing interest may be demanded during the term of a straight note.

A straight note in real estate isn’t a common loan because purchasing loans like mortgages are for much more extended periods of time. The most common reason to use straight notes in real estate is for short-term debt by lenders or carryback sellers. Another instance when the straight note is used in real estate is for evidence of short-term real estate commitments. For example, if someone wants to purchase a property, but the funds necessary for the closing might take a while to be granted, a straight note works as a bridge loan. The buyer will use the straight note to demonstrate a real estate obligation until the mortgage is granted.

image of a real estate dictionary page

Have a question or comment?

We're here to help.

*** Your email address will remain confidential.
 

 

Popular Real Estate Terms

Expenditures incurred to develop real estate. An example is the cost to build a shopping center. ...

Schedule which is part of Form 1040 showing income or loss from real estate transactions including net rental income (rental revenue less rental expenses). ...

Escrow, often known as collateral, is a legal concept. A third party is designated to hold an asset, resource, or a sum of money used in a transaction on behalf of the other two parties, ...

In insurance, charging the lowest rate accorded an insurance policy covering a minimum risk classification situation. For example, a homeowner's insurance for a home located within 500 feet ...

We know that the board of directors meaning defines a body of high executives who make significant daily decisions. But what is the definition of board of directors precisely? Typically, ...

Provision in the insurance policy lapses due to premium nonpayment, all unpaid premiums must be paid, and any additional requirements must be satisfied before reinstatement can take place. ...

Metal or wood channel attached immediately below or along the eaves of a building for the purpose of channeling rainwater away from the structure. The gutter prevents rain runoff from ...

An agreement occurring from actions of those impacted, but not communicated in writing or orally. For example, it is presumed that a real estate agent will perform his or her obligations ...

Increase in the value of property arising from holding it. The gain is realized only when the property is sold at which time it is taxable. An example is the increase in the appraised value ...

Popular Real Estate Questions