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Assumption The agreement between buyer and seller where the buyer takes over the payments on an existing mortgage from the seller. Assuming a loan can usually save the buyer money since this is an existing mortgage debt, unlike a new mortgage where closing cost and new, probably higher, market-rate interest charges will apply. | |
Effective interest rate The effective interest rate is the mortgage cost on a yearly basis expressed as a percentage includes charges paid when closing the loan including compounded interest. Higher closing costs or more frequent compounding result in a higher effective interest rate. | |
Mortgage A conditional conveyance of property as security for the payment of a debt or the fulfillment of some obligation. Upon payment of the debt or performance of the obligation the mortgage becomes void. | |
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) In the event that you do not have a 20 percent down payment, lenders will allow a smaller down payment - as low as 3 percent in some cases. With down payments below 20%, borrowers are usually required to carry private mortgage insurance depending on your loan's structure. Private Mortgage Insurance, is paid on all non-government-insured loans and whose equity is less than 20%. When you have accumulated 20% in equity, your lender may waive PMI at your request. FHA and VA loans have different insurance and guidelines; see Mortgage Insurance Premium for FHA loans. | |