Definition: The term "mortgage amortization" refers to a process where a borrower pays off their mortgage loan in equal monthly installments over time, typically for 36 months or more. This allows the lender to return the principal amount due on the loan at the end of the amortization period. For example, if a homeowner had a $100,000 mortgage with a term of 25 years and they were able to pay off the entire loan over 36 months (i.e., 64 monthly installments), their total amount owed would be $200,000, which includes interest. If they did this by paying off the balance in equal monthly installments for 15 years (i.e., 90 monthly installments), their total debt would be $300,000. Understanding mortgage amortization is essential for borrowers to understand how their payments are calculated and how long it will take them to fully pay off their loan. By understanding the process of mortgage amortization, borrowers can better plan their finances and make informed decisions about how they spend their money over time.