Definition of "Margin of security"

Buffer amount between the value of the collateral and the principal balance of the obligation. For example, if the mortgage has a principal balance of $200,000 and the appraised value of the property is $250,000, the bank has a margin of security of $50,000 in the event of default. The greater the collateral value, the more protection the bank has. In troubled real estate markets because of adverse economic conditions, the market value of the property may fall substantially below the balance of the mortgage. Many homeowners in such a case have defaulted on the loan because of the decline in market values. For example, if the appraised value of a home has fallen to $60,000 while the mortgage balance is $100,000, it might be more financially prudent for the debtor to default on the mortgage.

image of a real estate dictionary page

Have a question or comment?

We're here to help.

*** Your email address will remain confidential.
 

 

Popular Real Estate Terms

The definition of acoustical materials is a wide range of materials that are used in construction or technology to provide soundproofing. There are different types of acoustic materials ...

Arrears is a legal and financial term used to describe payments in regards to their due dates. While the term is more often used to refer to a contractual obligation or liability that was ...

Real property that is without any obligations, liens, or anything else against it. It is free and clear such as a house without mortgage. ...

Insurance coverage provided for an individual having a lease at a favorable rate, one which is less than the market value of the property. The insurance indemnifies the tenant for business ...

Person who leases rented premises from the initial lessee. The sublease is for a time not exceeding the original lease period. ...

Something that has been built and physically exists at a specified location, such as a building, garage, etc. Something consisting of related parts, such as the organization and terms of ...

A four-unit building with four tenants in a condominium type of ownership and management. ...

The result of an act or a fact. ...

Financial institution that channels the savings of its depositors mostly into mortgage and home improvement loans. It concentrates on originating , servicing, and holding mortgage loans. ...

Popular Real Estate Questions