Potential Downsides of Balloon Mortgages for Homebuyers The most significant risk of a balloon mortgage is foreclosure if the borrower can't make the balloon payment at the end of the term.
If it's a lower monthly payment you're after, you don't have to take on a balloon mortgage. Remember: These are uncommon and risky. You can make your payments more affordable from the outset by making a higher down payment (so you borrow less) and shopping around for the best possible mortgage rate.