HABENDUM CLAUSE
The "to have and to hold" clause which may be found in a deed.

HEIR
One who inherits property at the death of the owner of the land, if the owner has died without a will.

HIGHEST AND BEST USE
An appraisal phrase meaning that use which at the time of an appraisal is most likely to produce the greatest net return to the land and/or buildings over a given period of time; that use which will produce the greatest amount of amenities or profit. This is the starting point for appraisal.

HIP ROOF
A pitched roof with sloping sides and ends.

HOLDER IN DUE COURSE
One who has taken a note, check or bill of exchange in due course: 1. before it was overdue; 2. in good faith and for value; and 3. without knowledge that it has been previously dishonored and without notice of any defect at the time it was negotiated to him or her.

HOLDOVER TENANT
Tenant who remains in possession of leased property after the expiration of the lease term.

HOMESTEAD (exemption)
A statutory protection of real property used as a home from the claims of certain creditors and judgments up to a specified amount.

HOUSING FINANCIAL DISCRIMINATION ACT OF 1977 (Holden Act)
California Health and Safety Code Section 35800, et seq., designed primarily to eliminate discrimination in lending practices based upon the character of the neighborhood in which real property is located. (See Redlining.)

HUD
The Department of Housing and Urban Development which is responsible for the implementation and administration of U.S. government housing and urban development programs.

HUNDRED PERCENT LOCATION
A city retail business location which is considered the best available for attracting business.

HYPOTHECATE
To pledge a thing as security without the necessity of giving up possession of it.