Underwriting
In mortgage banking, the analysis of the risk involved in making a mortgage loan to determine whether the risk is acceptable to the lender. Underwriting involves the evaluation of the property as outlined in the appraisal report, and of the borrower’s ability and willingness to repay the loan.

Unencumbered Property
A property that is free and clear of debts or liens.

Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)
A comprehensive code of laws regulating important legal aspects of business and financial transactions. The code has been accepted by every state except Louisiana.

Unit-in-Place Method
A method of estimating construction costs by figuring the cost of each component installed. Also called the segregated cost method.

Upset price
The amount for which a property may be sold to cover all expenses. The break-even point.

Urban Development Action Grant (UDAG)
A federal program administered by HUD under which distressed cities and urban counties may obtain funding for community development projects.

Urban Renewal
The redevelopment or rehabilitation of property in an urban area.

Utilities
Basic services associated with developed areas that include provisions for electricity, telephone, fuel, water, and garbage collection.