A home loan, also known as a mortgage, is a type of loan provided by a financial institution or lender to help individuals or families purchase a home. The loan is secured by the property being purchased, which means that if the borrower fails to repay the loan according to the agreed-upon terms, the lender has the right to foreclose on the property to recover the outstanding debt. Home loans play a significant role in helping individuals and families achieve homeownership by providing access to the funds needed to purchase a home while spreading the cost over a period of time.