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Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) A mortgage whose interest rate changes over time based on an index and a margin. Rate changes are made at prescribed times and within prescribed limits (caps) as defined in the mortgage contract. | |
Deed of Trust An instrument used in many states in place of a mortgage. The property is transferred to a trustee by the borrower (trustor), in favor of the lender (beneficiary) and re-conveyed upon payment in full. | |
Monthly Housing Payment Typically the total amount of principal, interest, taxes, and insurance (PITI) paid each month on a mortgage loan. Many lenders and investors limit the monthly housing payment to 28% of the gross monthly income. | |
Underwriting Underwriting involves an analysis of the borrower's creditworthiness (debts and assets, employment history, property evaluation, and other factors to determine an appropriate rate, term & loan amount. | |