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Assessed Value
The value that a taxing authority, such as a county assessor places on real property as a base for computing property taxes. Generally assessed at 80% of value. |
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Debt ratio or Debt-to-Income Ratio
The ratio, expressed as a percentage, is calculated by dividing the monthly payment of long-term debts by gross monthly income. |
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Interest-only payments
Mortgage payments that include only interest. No loan amortization occurs and, thus, the homeowner does not accrue any equity (unless the home value increases). |
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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. |
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