Amortization
Last updated 08-20-2026
CFPB
Updated 08-20-2026
Amortization
Amortization means paying off a loan with regular payments over time, so that the amount you owe decreases with each payment. Most home loans amortize, but some mortgage loans do not fully amortize, meaning that you would still owe money after making all of your payments. the mortgage balance will grow rather than decrease. This is called negative amortization. Other loan programs that do not amortize fully during the loan may require a large, lump sum “balloon” payment at the end of the loan term. Be sure you know what type of loan you are getting. Learn more about the homebuying process (cfpb.gov/owning-a-home/).
CFPB Mortgage Terms
CFPB · pp. 2–5
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