In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated. “Adjusted annual income” means gross income from all sources with adjustments, as determined by the Department, made for unusual or temporary income items and long-term unusual expenses such as medical, rehabilitation, or special education expenses. “Adjusted annual income” includes: wages; investment income; Social Security payments; retirement payments; disability payments; and unemployment insurance payments. “Fund” means the Homeownership Programs Fund under Subtitle 5 of this title. “Household of limited income” means one or more individuals whose aggregate adjusted annual income does not exceed the upper income limits that the Secretary sets under § 4-807 of this subtitle. “Lot consolidation” means the acquisition of real property adjacent to and in connection with a residence financed by the Program to include the real property as part of the residence. “Median annual family income” means the median annual family income for the State, county, or area, whichever is greatest, as shown in the latest Census Bureau Report of the United States Department of Commerce. “Preferred interest rate” means an interest rate that the Department sets under § 4-806(c) of this subtitle. “Program” means the Maryland Home Financing Program. “Region” means an area of the State that the Department establishes comprising one or more counties. “Short-term loan” means a loan that, under the loan documents, is expected to be taken out by other financing within 7 years.