What does the term "principal" refer to in a real estate context?

In the context of real estate, the term "principal" primarily refers to two important aspects: the original sum of money borrowed in a mortgage and the individuals involved in real estate transactions. When discussing the financial component, "principal" identifies the amount of money that borrowers take out when they obtain a mortgage, separate from interest or other costs associated with borrowing. This principal amount is what the borrower is responsible for repaying.

Moreover, the term also encompasses the roles of key individuals within a transaction, such as the buyers and sellers. These individuals are often referred to as principals because they are the primary parties engaged in the negotiation and decision-making processes regarding the sale or purchase of a property.

Understanding this dual definition is essential for anyone involved in real estate, as it clarifies both financial obligations related to loans and the primary parties in transactional contexts.