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Understanding the meaning of mortgage acronyms and terminology

Here’s a quick explanation of what the main mortgage terms mean to help you start talking like a pro.

Karina Reardon
Last updated: 10 April 2024 | 6 min read
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Understanding mortgage jargon is crucial for Kiwi home buyers. Key terms include LVR (Loan-to-Value Ratio), which compares your loan to the property's value, and DTI (Debt-to-Income Ratio), which measures your total debt against your income. The Reserve Bank is considering DTI limits.

Other important concepts are UMI (Uncommitted Monthly Income), your monthly surplus after expenses, and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) laws requiring identity verification. Your credit score reflects your ability to manage debt and influences loan approval.

What does LVR mean?

Image provided by mortgages.co.nz

What does DTI mean?

Image provided by mortgages.co.nz

What does UMI mean?

Image provided by mortgages.co.nz

What does AML mean?

What is a credit score?

Authors

Karina Reardon Karina Reardon
Head of Strategic Partnerships

Murray Joiner Murray Joiner
Content Writer