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.
Hi, In real estate pending refers to when the Seller has accepted an Offer from a Buyer and now the property is under contract. This technically does not mean that the property has sold yet. There are possible contingencies / variables that could allow it to fall out of escrow.