A cash amount that a borrower has available after making a down paymentA portion of the price of a home, usually between 3-20%, not borrowed and paid up-front in cash. Some loans are offered with zero down-payment.... and paying closing costsThe upfront fees charged in connection with a mortgage loan transaction. Money paid by a buyer (and/or seller or other third parties, if applicable) to effect the closing of a mortgage loan, generally including, but not limited to a loan origination fee, title examination and insurance, survey, attorney’s fee, and prepaid items, such as escrow deposits for taxes and insurance.... for the purchase of a home. The principalThe amount of money borrowed or the amount of the loan that has not yet been repaid to the lender. This does not include the interest you will pay to borrow that money. The principal balance (sometimes called the outstanding or unpaid principal balance) is the amount owed on the loan minus the amount you’ve repaid...., interestThe cost you pay to borrow money. It is the payment you make to a lender for the money it has loaned to you. Interest is usually expressed as a percentage of the amount borrowed...., taxes, and insurance (PITIAn acronym for the four primary components of a monthly mortgage payment: principal, interest, taxes, and insurance (PITI)....) reserves must equal the amount that the borrower would have to pay for PITI for a predefined number of months.