A home mortgage, also known as a house loan or property loan, refers to a type of loan where a borrower borrows money to buy a home or investment property with the property serving as collateral. Other synonyms for home mortgage include a home loan, a property mortgage, a housing loan, and a real estate loan. These terms are used interchangeably to refer to the same type of financial instrument. The process of obtaining a home mortgage involves rigorous screening to ensure the borrower meets the lender's requirements, typically creditworthiness, employment, and income. Home mortgages are usually amortized, meaning the borrower pays back the loan through a fixed monthly payment.