The word gerbil is a diminutive form of  jerboa , though the jerboas are an unrelated group of rodents occupying a similar ecological niche.
A variance is a form of equitable relief that allows a property owner to bypass local zoning laws so they can use their land in the most efficient manner possible. When unusual circumstances make it difficult for a property owner to comply with local zoning laws, cities and counties may grant what are known as variances to allow property owners to circumvent the traditional zoning laws in an area.
The real estate term âunder contractâ means that a binding agreement exists between a buyer and a seller of property. The buyer and the seller are in agreement with the terms in the contract. When a property is under contract, the seller may not enter into contract with any other buyer. This is because the buyer is under obligation to purchase to property from the seller.