Total purchase price of the home.
$
Initial payment for the home purchase.
$
Annual mortgage interest rate.
%
Length of the mortgage loan.
Annual property tax amount.
$
Annual homeowners insurance premium.
$
Private Mortgage Insurance rate (required if down payment is less than 20%).
%
Monthly Homeowners Association fees (if applicable).
$
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How Mortgage Payments Work

Understanding how mortgages work is essential for making informed decisions

  • Principal and Interest: Your monthly payment includes both the repayment of the loan amount (principal) and the cost of borrowing (interest).
  • Amortization: As you make payments, more of each payment goes toward the principal and less toward interest over time.
  • Additional Costs: Your total mortgage payment may include property taxes, homeowners insurance, and private mortgage insurance (PMI).
  • Interest Rates: The interest rate significantly impacts your monthly payment and the total cost of the loan.

Our calculator helps you understand the total cost of your mortgage, including both principal and interest, across different scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about mortgage payments and loans

What factors affect my mortgage payment?

Your mortgage payment is affected by several factors including the loan amount (principal), interest rate, loan term, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and private mortgage insurance (PMI) if required.

How can I lower my monthly payment?

You can lower your monthly payment by making a larger down payment, extending the loan term, finding a lower interest rate, or eliminating PMI by putting 20% or more down.

Should I choose a 15-year or 30-year mortgage?

A 15-year mortgage typically has lower interest rates and less total interest paid but higher monthly payments. A 30-year mortgage offers lower monthly payments but costs more in total interest over the life of the loan.

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