50 Facts About Mortgage

The Origins and Evolution of Mortgages

Mortgages have a rich history that dates back centuries. Understanding their origins and how they have evolved can provide valuable insights into their current structure and significance.

1. The word "mortgage" comes from the Old French phrase "mort gaige," meaning "death pledge." This term reflects the serious commitment involved in repaying the loan or risking property loss.
2. The earliest recorded use of "mortgage" was in the 1300s in a poem called "Confessio Amantis." Interestingly, it initially described marriage, not home loans.
3. Early mortgages required high down payments and short repayment periods. In the early 1900s, buyers often had to make a 50% down payment and pay interest-only for five years, with the entire principal due at the end.
4. Modern mortgages typically involve a significant down payment and a longer repayment period, often 15 or 30 years. This structure makes homeownership more accessible by spreading payments over time.
5. Mortgages gained popularity in England before spreading to other parts of the Western world. Building societies and government-backed loans increased accessibility, especially after World Wars I and II.

Mortgage Mechanics and Types

Understanding the mechanics of mortgages and the different types available can help potential homeowners make informed decisions.

6. Credit history is crucial for mortgage eligibility. Lenders use credit scores to assess the risk of lending. A poor credit score can limit options, while no credit history can make securing a mortgage difficult.
7. Various mortgage types exist, including conforming conventional loans, nonconforming conventional mortgages (jumbo loans), and FHA loans. Each type has different credit score requirements and down payment options.
8. VA loans are designed for active-duty military service members, veterans, and their families. These loans offer favorable terms, such as lower interest rates and down payment requirements.
9. Generation X homebuyers (ages 42 to 56) have the highest household income among recent buyers. In 2020, their median income was $125,000.
10. In Scotland, homeowners celebrate paying off their mortgage by painting their front door red. In the U.S., some celebrate by burning the mortgage agreement at a party.

Mortgage Debt and Interest Rates

Mortgage debt and interest rates have significant impacts on the housing market and individual finances.

11. As of 2023, Americans owe $12.14 trillion on their mortgages, with mortgage debt accounting for 70.2% of consumer debt in the U.S. The average mortgage size per account is $144,593.
12. The average 30-year mortgage interest rate since 1971 is about 7.74%. Rates have fluctuated significantly, reaching nearly 20% around 1980.
13. The increase in outstanding mortgage debt is driven by larger mortgage sizes and more people with active mortgages. Record-low interest rates have allowed buyers to increase purchase prices while maintaining similar monthly payments.
14. As of August 2023, 1.2% of mortgages were seriously delinquent or in foreclosure. This percentage is higher for FHA and VA loans, at 4.6% and 2.5%, respectively.
15. First-time buyers typically make up 40% of the housing market, but this number has been lower in recent years. In 2013, only 38% of buyers were first-time buyers.

Financing Trends and Credit Scores

Financing trends and credit scores play a crucial role in the mortgage process, affecting eligibility and terms.

16. About 88% of homebuyers take out a mortgage to finance their home purchase. Most buyers finance 90% of the cost, leaving a 10% down payment.
17. While it is possible to buy a home with no down payment, this is less common. The number of people who financed a home without a down payment peaked at 16% in 2009 and has since declined to about 12%.
18. The average credit score in the U.S. is 718. Most people meet the minimum credit score requirement for conforming conventional loans, which is at least 620. Nonconforming conventional mortgages (jumbo loans) typically require a higher score, often around 680 or higher.
19. For individuals with no credit history, manual underwriting is an option. This process involves a human evaluating the application based on employment documentation, timely bill payments, and asset documentation.
20. The total mortgage debt outstanding at the end of the third quarter of 2013 was over $13 trillion. The type of property with the most mortgage debt in 2013 was one-to-four-family residences.

Government Influence and Tax Benefits

Government programs and tax benefits have played a significant role in shaping the mortgage landscape.

21. Fannie Mae was created in 1938 by President Franklin Roosevelt to free up money for lenders. Freddie Mac was established in 1970. Today, these organizations own or guarantee about half of the mortgages in the country.
22. The mortgage interest tax deduction has been available since 1894. This deduction allows homeowners to reduce their taxable income by the amount of interest paid on their mortgage.
23. As of 2023, Americans originated $1.1 trillion in new mortgage debt in the first three quarters. This debt was primarily issued to super-prime borrowers with credit scores of at least 720, while 3.6% was issued to subprime borrowers with scores below 620.
24. The average size of a home purchase mortgage obtained through the LendingTree platform in the 12 months ending in October 2023 was $224,398. Average loan sizes varied significantly by state, with the highest in Hawaii ($464,994) and the lowest in West Virginia ($150,245).
25. There were 144,880 new foreclosures in the 12 months ending on September 30, 2023. This number reflects the ongoing challenges in the housing market.

Home Equity and Delinquency Rates

Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) and delinquency rates are important aspects of the mortgage landscape.

26. Americans owe $349 billion on 13.1 million HELOCs, with an average balance of $26,702 per account. This represents 2.0% of U.S. consumer debt.
27. The percentage of mortgage debt that is seriously delinquent (90 days or more past due) is 1.2%. This rate is higher for FHA and VA loans, at 4.6% and 2.5%, respectively.
28. Initially, a homebuyer's credit score may drop due to hard inquiries during the application process. However, over time, the positive payment history of a mortgage can significantly improve the credit score.
29. Many homebuyers plan to stay in their homes for a long time. Across all buyers, 28% plan never to move, with this percentage increasing to 43% among 68-to-76-year-olds and 38% among 77-to-97-year-olds.
30. First-time homebuyers also plan to stay put for a while. The median expected home tenure for first-time buyers is 18 years.

Challenges and Celebrations in Homeownership

Homeownership comes with its own set of challenges and celebrations, from securing a mortgage to paying it off.

31. The mortgage industry is highly competitive, with numerous providers offering various products. Choosing the right mortgage can be a complex task, often requiring professional help.
32. Self-employed individuals often face challenges when applying for a mortgage. They must provide detailed financial documentation to prove their income, which can be difficult to do.
33. Having adequate mortgage protection in place is crucial. This includes considering insurance options and estate planning to ensure that the mortgage is managed effectively in case of unforeseen events.
34. The tradition of housewarming is rooted in the belief that neighbors should join new homeowners to ward off spirits that might be lingering in the unoccupied building. Today, it's a social occasion for family and friends.
35. Interest rates on mortgages have fluctuated significantly over the years. As of 2023, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage was 6.79%, ranging from 6.09% to 7.79% during the year.

State Variations and Financing Trends

Mortgage trends and average loan sizes vary significantly by state, reflecting regional differences in the housing market.

36. Average loan sizes vary significantly by state. The highest average loan size was in Hawaii ($464,994), followed by the District of Columbia ($355,986) and Massachusetts ($309,490). The lowest average loan sizes were in West Virginia ($150,245), Iowa ($153,405), and Michigan ($160,707).
37. About 88% of homebuyers take out a mortgage to finance their home purchase. Most buyers finance 90% of the cost, leaving a 10% down payment.
38. While it is possible to buy a home with no down payment, this is less common. The number of people who financed a home without a down payment peaked at 16% in 2009 and has since declined to about 12%.
39. The average credit score in the U.S. is 718. Most people meet the minimum credit score requirement for conforming conventional loans, which is at least 620. Nonconforming conventional mortgages (jumbo loans) typically require a higher credit score, often around 680 or higher.
40. For individuals with no credit history, manual underwriting is an option. This process involves a human evaluating the application based on employment documentation, timely bill payments, and asset documentation.

Government Influence and Tax Benefits

Government programs and tax benefits have played a significant role in shaping the mortgage landscape.

41. Fannie Mae was created in 1938 by President Franklin Roosevelt to free up money for lenders. Freddie Mac was established in 1970. Today, these organizations own or guarantee about half of the mortgages in the country.
42. The mortgage interest tax deduction has been available since 1894. This deduction allows homeowners to reduce their taxable income by the amount of interest paid on their mortgage.
43. As of 2023, Americans originated $1.1 trillion in new mortgage debt in the first three quarters. This debt was primarily issued to super-prime borrowers with credit scores of at least 720, while 3.6% was issued to subprime borrowers with scores below 620.
44. The average size of a home purchase mortgage obtained through the LendingTree platform in the 12 months ending in October 2023 was $224,398. Average loan sizes varied significantly by state, with the highest in Hawaii ($464,994) and the lowest in West Virginia ($150,245).
45. There were 144,880 new foreclosures in the 12 months ending on September 30, 2023. This number reflects the ongoing challenges in the housing market.

Home Equity and Delinquency Rates

Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) and delinquency rates are important aspects of the mortgage landscape.

46. Americans owe $349 billion on 13.1 million HELOCs, with an average balance of $26,702 per account. This represents 2.0% of U.S. consumer debt.
47. The percentage of mortgage debt that is seriously delinquent (90 days or more past due) is 1.2%. This rate is higher for FHA and VA loans, at 4.6% and 2.5%, respectively.
48. Initially, a homebuyer's credit score may drop due to hard inquiries during the application process. However, over time, the positive payment history of a mortgage can significantly improve the credit score.
49. Many homebuyers plan to stay in their homes for a long time. Across all buyers, 28% plan never to move, with this percentage increasing to 43% among 68-to-76-year-olds and 38% among 77-to-97-year-olds.
50. First-time homebuyers also plan to stay put for a while. The median expected home tenure for first-time buyers is 18 years.

The Mortgage Landscape

Mortgages have come a long way from their origins as "death pledges." They now offer various options to suit different needs, from VA loans for veterans to FHA loans for first-time buyers. Credit history plays a crucial role in securing a mortgage, and interest rates can significantly impact the overall cost. The average mortgage debt in the U.S. is staggering, reflecting the importance of homeownership in American life. Foreclosures and delinquencies remain challenges, but many homeowners celebrate paying off their mortgages with traditions like painting their doors red. Understanding these facts can help you navigate the mortgage process more effectively. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to refinance, being informed is key. Mortgages are more than just loans; they're a gateway to achieving the dream of homeownership.