What defines the loan term in a mortgage agreement?

The loan term in a mortgage agreement is defined as the time between closing and the final loan payment. This term specifies the duration over which the borrower agrees to repay the loan, typically expressed in years. Common loan terms include 15, 20, or 30 years, influencing the monthly payment amounts and the total interest paid over the life of the loan. The length of the loan term significantly affects financing options and borrower strategy, including choices related to interest rates and payment structures.

The other options relate to important aspects of a loan but do not define the loan term. The total amount charged for interest over the loan duration pertains to the cost of borrowing but does not specify the timeframe. The total amount borrowed is a crucial aspect of the loan but does not indicate how long the borrower has to repay that sum. The rate of interest charged is also important as it impacts the overall cost of the loan, yet it does not define the timeframe for repayment. Thus, only the time from closing to the final payment accurately captures the essence of what constitutes the loan term.