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Financing

TILA (Truth in Lending Act)

TILA is a federal law that requires lenders to disclose the true cost of credit to borrowers, including the annual percentage rate (APR), total finance charges, and loan terms. It is implemented by Regulation Z.

Understanding TILA (Truth in Lending Act)

TILA/Regulation Z requires lenders to clearly disclose the APR, which includes not only the interest rate but also certain fees and charges, making it easier for borrowers to compare loan offers. TILA provides a 3-day right of rescission for refinance transactions on a primary residence (but NOT for purchase money loans). Regulation Z also governs advertising: if a trigger term (specific credit terms like down payment, monthly payment, or interest rate) is used in an ad, full disclosure of all credit terms is required.

Real-World Example

A lender advertises "Only $1,500 per month!" This monthly payment is a trigger term under Regulation Z. The ad must also disclose the APR, number of payments, amount of down payment, and total of all payments. Failure to include these disclosures violates TILA.

Visual Study Guide
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Exam Tips

Know the trigger terms for advertising: down payment, monthly payment, number of payments, interest rate, or finance charge. If ANY trigger term appears, ALL credit terms must be disclosed. The APR is NOT a trigger term—it can be stated alone without triggering full disclosure. Remember: 3-day right of rescission applies to refinances, NOT purchase loans.

Related Terms

RESPAPredatory LendingAdvertising Regulations

Related Concepts

In the context of foreclosure, a deed transfers ownership of the foreclosed property to the new owner, typically the buyer at a foreclosure sale.

A trustee sale is a type of foreclosure where a trustee, appointed under a deed of trust, sells the property at auction to satisfy the debt.

Foreclosure is the legal process by which a lender takes possession of a property when a borrower fails to make mortgage payments. It allows the lender to sell the property to recover the outstanding debt.

A conventional loan is a mortgage that is not insured or guaranteed by a government agency such as the FHA, VA, or USDA. It is originated and funded by private lenders and may be conforming or non-conforming.

An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration that allows lower down payments and credit scores than conventional loans. It is designed to help first-time homebuyers and borrowers with limited resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

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