Real Estate Finance

Amortization

The process of paying off a loan through regular, scheduled payments that cover both principal and interest.


Definition

An amortized loan is paid off through equal periodic payments over the loan term. In the early years, most of each payment goes toward interest; over time, more goes toward principal as the balance decreases. After the full term, the loan is fully paid off. An amortization schedule shows exactly how each payment is allocated between principal and interest.

Exam Tip

Early payments = mostly interest. Later payments = mostly principal. The exam frequently asks which portion is larger at the beginning of a mortgage.

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