What Is Loan-to-Value?

LTV compares a loan amount to the value of the property securing it, expressed as a percentage — a key number lenders use to gauge risk.

Formula

LTV = Loan Amount ÷ Property Value × 100

Example

A $320,000 loan on a $400,000 property has an LTV of 80%.

Why It Matters

Lower LTV generally means better loan terms and, on a conventional loan, may remove the requirement for PMI.

Related Terms

← Back to Full Glossary