How is a first mortgage typically categorized?

A first mortgage is characterized as the primary loan secured by a property. This means that it is the initial loan that a borrower takes out to finance the purchase of a home or real estate. It is secured by the property itself, which serves as collateral for the loan. In the event of default, the lender holding the first mortgage has the highest claim on the property, meaning they have the right to foreclose and recover their investment before any subsequent mortgages or liens are addressed.

In contrast, subordinate loans, such as second mortgages or home equity lines of credit, are considered subordinate because they have a lower priority in terms of claims against the property. A home equity loan specifically involves borrowing against the equity that has been built up in the property, while investment property loans relate to properties purchased for rental or profit purposes rather than for personal residence. Thus, defining the first mortgage as the primary secured loan most accurately reflects its role in real estate financing.