Straight Note
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.
Popular Real Estate Terms
CE Shop has become a widely used and popular term in real estate. But what does it mean? “CE” stands for continuing education, and in the real estate business, it implies a ...
Way of selling real estate in which a syndicator sells equity interests to investors. Examples include a real estate investment trust, limited partnership, and corporation. For example, a ...
Written proposals and acceptances applicable to the aspects of the transaction. The escrow agent must follow the purchase and sale agreement. ...
Sheet metal, often made of aluminum, used to cover a structure's open masonry or wood joints. The purpose of flashing is to prevent the penetration of water as well as to provide a drainage ...
Wood strip on the top of a baseboard. ...
We call a concept ostensible when, at first sight, it appears to be accurate or valid. However, upon closer inspection, it proves to be a half-truth or completely false. For instance, Dale ...
Any structure projecting from a wall or other vertical element for the purpose of providing support for a weight or other object. ...
The United States has a law named “eminent domain” that grants local, state, or federal government the right to take ownership of a private property with or without the consent ...
Insurance coverage for any risk that can cause physical damage to the insured item. ...

Have a question or comment?
We're here to help.