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HELOC EXPERT GLOSSARY

Glossary: I

Browse terms beginning with I and move through the full A–Z home-equity and mortgage glossary.

I

Terms Starting with I

Each letter has its own permanent glossary page for easier browsing and linking.

Index

A published benchmark used in the interest-rate formula for many adjustable-rate loans and HELOCs.

Index Rate

A published benchmark used with a margin to determine the interest rate on many adjustable-rate products.

Initial Advance

An amount some HELOC lenders may require or permit the borrower to draw at or shortly after closing.

Interest Accrual

The process by which interest accumulates on an outstanding loan balance over time.

Interest Rate

The percentage used to calculate interest charged on a loan balance.

Interest Rate Risk

The possibility that borrowing costs or asset values change as market interest rates change.

Interest Reserve

Funds set aside to make scheduled interest payments, generally in specialized lending structures.

Interest-Only Payment

A payment that covers interest due without scheduled reduction of principal, if permitted by the loan terms.

Investment Property

Real estate owned primarily for rental income, appreciation or investment rather than as the owner’s primary residence.