Mortgage Points Calculator
Use this calculator to determine if purchasing mortgage points is a good financial decision for your mortgage situation. Mortgage points can lower your interest rate and monthly payments, but they come at an upfront cost.
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Data Source and Methodology
All calculations are based on standard mortgage formulas provided by the Federal Reserve and industry guidelines. Federal Reserve. All calculations are strictly based on the formulas and data provided by this source.
The Formula Explained
The monthly payment is calculated using the formula:
Payment = P * r(1 + r)^n / ((1 + r)^n - 1)where P is the loan amount, r is the monthly interest rate, and n is the number of payments.
Glossary of Terms
- Loan Amount: The total amount of the mortgage.
- Interest Rate: The annual interest rate of the loan.
- Points Purchased: The number of points purchased to reduce the interest rate.
- Monthly Payment: The monthly payment amount calculated based on the input values.
- Total Cost of Points: The upfront cost required to purchase the points.
- Break-Even Point: The time it takes for the savings from the reduced monthly payments to equal the cost of the points.
Example: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let's consider a loan amount of $200,000 with an interest rate of 3.5% and purchasing 1 point. The monthly payment will be calculated based on these inputs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are mortgage points?
Mortgage points are fees paid directly to the lender at closing in exchange for a reduced interest rate.
How much does a point lower the interest rate?
Typically, one point can lower the interest rate by 0.25%, but this varies by lender.
Are mortgage points tax-deductible?
Yes, mortgage points may be tax-deductible in the year they are paid, but consult with a tax advisor for your specific situation.
How do I know if buying points is worth it?
Use this calculator to determine the break-even point and assess if the upfront cost is justified by long-term savings.
Can mortgage points be refunded?
No, once paid, mortgage points are non-refundable.