The Mortgage Encyclopedia

The Mortgage Encyclopedia demystifies all the various mortgage terms, features, and options by offering clear, precise explanations.

Fully updated to address the new realities introduced by the housing crisis of 2007, The Mortgage Encyclopedia provides not just a complete description, but also in-depth discussion of the issues that may affect you, whether you're a homeowner (or homeowner-to-be), real estate agent, loan provider, or attorney. With this handy, comprehensive guide on hand, you have instant access to:

• Definitions and explanations of common mortgage-related terms, as well as arcane mortgage terminology, listed alphabetically
• Expert advice on the most pressing issues, such as whether to use a mortgage brokers, the benefits of paying points versus a larger down payment, and the hazards of cosigning a loan
• The truth about common mortgage myths and misperceptionsand the pitfalls you need to avoid
• Helpful tables on affordability, interest cost of fixed-rate versus adjustable rate mortgages, and much more

So the next time you ask yourself such questions as "Is this FHA loan right for me?" or "Can I negotiate this fee?" reach for this indispensable guide and get the fast, accurate information you need!

With the creation of so many new, complex mortgage programs, it's difficult for consumers --not to mention real estate agents, attorneys, closing agents, and mortgage brokers--to keep track of them all. Written by nationally syndicated real estate columnist Jack Guttentag, The Mortgage Encyclopedia helps readers understand the various mortgage terms, features, and options by offering clear, precise explanations. The alphabetical organization of terms makes it easy to quickly find information on any topic, from FHA, Investor, and No-PMI Loans to Origination Fee and Rate Float. Each entry includes not just a description of the term, but also relevant advice for consumers, such as answers to the questions "Is this loan right for me?" and "Can I negotiate this fee?"

• Guides readers through the bewildering array of new mortgage programs
• Features definitions and explanations of common mortgage, escrow, and closing fees and arcane mortgage terminology

Jack Guttentag is Professor of Finance Emeritus at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and founder of GHR Systems, Inc., a mortgage technology company. He actively consultants and has aided many government agencies and private financial institutions, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development, USAID, Citicorp and the World Bank