Area median incomeAMI

The midpoint household income for a metropolitan area or county, published annually and used to set income limits for assistance programs.

Program rules are often written as a percentage of AMI, for example 80% or 140% of AMI. The same dollar income can be well under the limit in one metro and over it in another, which is why assistance eligibility is so location-specific.

More terms to know

Adjustable-Rate MortgageA mortgage whose interest rate can change over time based on a benchmark index, usually after an initial fixed period. Payments can rise or fall when the rate adjusts.
AmortizationThe schedule that shows how each mortgage payment is split between interest and principal over the life of the loan. Early payments go mostly toward interest.
Annual Percentage RateA yearly cost figure that combines the interest rate with certain lender fees, so it is often higher than the interest rate alone. It is meant to help compare loan offers.
AppraisalA licensed appraiser's independent opinion of a home's market value, ordered by the lender to confirm the home supports the loan amount.
ClosingThe final step of a purchase, where documents are signed, funds are transferred and ownership moves to the buyer. Some areas call it settlement or escrow closing.
Closing CostsThe lender, third-party and prepaid costs due at closing, separate from the down payment. What they include and who pays varies by loan, lender and location.