What does “subordination” mean in mortgage terms?

In mortgage terms, “subordination” specifically refers to the process of changing the order of liens on a property, allowing a new loan to take priority over an existing loan. When multiple loans are secured by the same property, they are typically ranked in order of priority. The first loan, or first mortgage, has the highest claim in the event of a foreclosure, meaning it will be paid off first. By subordinating an existing loan, the lender agrees to place their lien behind the new loan in terms of priority. This can be important for borrowers looking to refinance or take out an additional loan while retaining existing debts.

Understanding this concept is crucial for both lenders and borrowers, as it can significantly influence the terms and availability of financing options. In the context of other options, liquidating a loan for profits relates to the sale of assets tied to a loan rather than the prioritization of liens. The full repayment of the loan pertains to the borrower's obligation rather than the order of liens, and delaying payments on the mortgage affects the borrower’s status but does not relate to the concept of subordination.