Balloon mortgages are short-term loans that begin with a series of fixed payments and end with a final, lump-sum payment. That one-time payment is called a balloon payment because it's often at least twice as much as the previous ones, leaving many borrowers with a final bill for tens of thousands of dollars (or more).
A form of security interest, typically a legal mortgage, taken over tangible movable property (known as chattels).
The Bottom Line Chattel mortgages are a little-known but potentially good option if you're looking to finance a manufactured home or heavy equipment. These loans are smaller than conventional loans and tend to have higher rates, but they have shorter terms and quicker payoffs.
Chattel is any tangible personal property that is movable. Examples of chattel are furniture, livestock, bedding, picture frames, and jewelry.
The traditional mortgage is only for stationary property. It's suited for long-term real estate investments. Chattel loans are for property that can be easily moved. They're also an option for borrowers who want their loans approved faster and with shorter repayment times.
In some states and under certain circumstances, the owners of manufactured homes can refinance their chattel loans into conventional manufactured home loans even if they don't own the lot underneath their homes.