Mortgage Glossary
Balloon Mortgage
A short-term loan that is paid off through fixed monthly payments, followed by one large, final payment (the 'balloon') of the entire remaining loan balance. The balloon mortgage is amortized as though it were a long-term fixed rate loan, resulting in low monthly payments, but after a specified time period (usually five, seven or 10 years) the entire remaining balance is due and payable in full.
B-TEST
A short-term loan that is paid off through fixed monthly payments, followed by one large, final payment (the 'balloon') of the entire remaining loan balance. The balloon mortgage is amortized as though it were a long-term fixed rate loan, resulting in low monthly payments, but after a specified time period (usually five, seven or 10 years) the entire remaining balance is due and payable in full.
Balloon Payment
The final lump sum payment made at the maturity date of a balloon mortgage. When payment is due, the homeowner may be able to refinance the loan.
Bankruptcy
A legal process in which a person who is unable to pay outstanding debts is released from payment of all debts owed. In many cases, the court distributes the debtor's property to the creditors as payment for the outstanding debt.
Blanket Mortgage
One mortgage that covers more than one property.
