Mortgage Advice
Mortgages

Understanding Mortgages: Mortgage Terms

(7/3/2012) In the midst of one of the most uncertain real estate markets in history, it’s more important than ever to be informed. In a continuing series, we take a look at some of the most pressing questions about mortgages, refinancing, home equity, and other real estate options available to you.

When you’re a first-time home buyer, or you’re refinancing, it may feel as if you need to learn another language to decipher the process. Mortgages comes with a vast array of unique terms to understand, but thankfully knowing a few key terms can serve you well. Some of the most commonly used mortgage terms follow.

ADJUSTABLE-RATE MORTGAGE (ARM):
A mortgage in which the interest rate changes after an introductory period. When interest rates change, monthly payments may increase or decrease depending on the rate.

APPRAISAL:
A real estate appraisal is a comprehensive evaluation process used to determine the current market value of a property. This assessment is typically conducted by a licensed or certified appraiser who examines various factors such as the property's location, condition, size, and comparable sales in the area. The appraisal process involves a thorough inspection of the property, analysis of the local real estate market, and consideration of elements like the property's features, improvements, and potential income generation. Real estate appraisals are essential in various transactions, including buying and selling property, obtaining a mortgage, refinancing, and property tax assessments. The goal is to provide an unbiased and accurate valuation to help all parties involved make informed decisions.

CLOSING:
The final step in buying a home. This occurs in a meeting between the borrower, lender/seller, and other agents that may include lawyers. The property title is transferred to the buyer at this meeting, and the seller receives payment.

DELINQUENCY:
Late payments from a borrower are considered delinquent. AFter 15 days, a late fee may be assessed. After 30 days, additional procedures may begin that will eventually lead to foreclosure in cases of serious delinquency.

DEPOSIT:
Also called earnest money, this is money put down by a potential buyer to show intent to buy. If an offer is accepted, this becomes part of the down payment.

DOWN PAYMENT:
A portion of the total purchase price that is paid in cash. The rest of the purchase price is part of a mortgage loan. When a down payment is less than 20 percent, mortgage insurance is required.

EQUITY:
An owner’s financial interest in a property. This amount is determined by subtracting the amount of the loan left from the market value of the property.

FIXED-RATE MORTGAGE:
A mortgage with an interest rate that remains constant throughout the life of the loan, translating to fixed monthly payments.

FORECLOSURE:
A process by which a property is sold to pay off a defaulted loan. Default refers to when a borrower has stopped making payments on the house.

MORTGAGE INSURANCE:
Insurance designed for lenders in the case of borrowers stopping payment on loans. Typically required when borrowers pay less than 20 percent on a down payment.

POINTS:
One percent of the principal amount of the mortgage. Points are typically charged by lenders to cover their costs, and are collected at closing.

PRINCIPAL, INTEREST, TAXES, AND INSURANCE (PITI):
The four elements of a monthly mortgage payment. Each month borrowers will pay down the principal (the main amount of the loan) and interest (depending on the interest rate). They will also pay towards property taxes and insurance (homeowners and mortgage insurance if necessary).

REFINANCING:
Obtaining a new loan to pay off the old loan. Refinancing is often done to get a better interest rate and save money each month.