How is the loan-to-value ratio typically expressed?

The loan-to-value ratio is a crucial metric in real estate that illustrates the relationship between the amount of a loan and the appraised value of the property being financed. By expressing this ratio as a percentage, it effectively indicates the lender's risk level in relation to the loan. A higher loan-to-value ratio suggests that the borrower is financing a larger portion of the property's value, which may imply greater risk for the lender in the event of a default.

This percentage is vital in decisions regarding mortgage approval and interest rates, as lenders often use it to gauge their potential exposure to loss if a borrower fails to repay the loan. Thus, the loan-to-value ratio serves as an important tool for both lenders and borrowers in understanding and managing financial risk in real estate transactions.