LESSON 7: LOAN TYPES, TERMS, ISSUES Flashcards
What is amortization?
The process of paying off debt over time through regular principal and interest payments.
What does an amortization schedule show?
A breakdown of loan payments, showing how much goes toward principal and interest each month.
How does an amortizing loan work?
Each payment includes interest and principal, with early payments covering more interest and later payments covering more principal.
How can amortization be calculated?
Using financial calculators, spreadsheet software (like Excel), or online amortization calculators.
What is the benefit of a level amortizing loan?
The borrower knows the monthly payment and interest rate will remain the same throughout the loan term.
What is the difference between amortization and depreciation?
Amortization applies to intangible assets (like patents), while depreciation applies to tangible assets (like buildings and equipment).
How is the interest portion of a mortgage payment calculated?
Multiply the principal balance by the annual interest rate, then divide by 12 to get the monthly interest amount.
How can extra payments on a mortgage impact amortization?
Extra payments reduce the principal faster, lowering the total interest paid and shortening the loan term.
What happens if you pay biweekly instead of monthly?
You pay off the loan faster and save on interest, as biweekly payments result in an extra full payment each year.
What are the two main parts of a mortgage payment?
Principal (amount borrowed) and interest (cost of borrowing).
What additional costs may be included in a mortgage payment?
Property taxes and homeowners insurance, often paid through escrow.
What happens to the allocation of principal and interest over time?
At the beginning, more of the payment goes to interest, but over time, more goes toward principal.
What is the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio?
The ratio of the loan amount to the property’s sales price (e.g., an $80,000 loan on a $100,000 house = 80% LTV).
What is the difference between government and conventional loans?
Government loans (FHA, VA) are backed by the government, while conventional loans are not.
When is private mortgage insurance (PMI) required?
When the LTV exceeds 80% (i.e., when the borrower makes a down payment of less than 20%).
Why do people refinance their homes?
To take advantage of lower interest rates, access home equity, or reduce monthly payments.
What is the basic formula for calculating interest?
Principal × Annual Interest Rate = Annual Interest Amount.