Mortgage Payment Formula:
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The mortgage payment formula calculates the fixed monthly payment required to fully amortize a loan over its term. This standard formula is used by lenders to determine your monthly mortgage payments.
The calculator uses the mortgage payment formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for both principal and interest payments, with more interest paid early in the loan term and more principal paid later.
Details: Understanding your mortgage payments helps with budgeting, comparing loan offers, and making informed decisions about home affordability and loan terms.
Tips: Enter the loan amount in dollars, annual interest rate as a percentage (e.g., 3.5 for 3.5%), and loan term in years. The calculator will show your estimated monthly payment, total payment over the loan term, and total interest paid.
Q1: Does this include property taxes and insurance?
A: No, this calculates only principal and interest. Your actual payment may include escrow for taxes and insurance.
Q2: How does a larger down payment affect my payment?
A: A larger down payment reduces the principal (P), resulting in lower monthly payments and less total interest.
Q3: What's better - shorter term with higher payments or longer term with lower payments?
A: Shorter terms mean less total interest but higher monthly payments. Longer terms have lower monthly payments but cost more overall.
Q4: How often should I refinance my mortgage?
A: Consider refinancing when interest rates drop significantly (typically 1-2% below your current rate) and you plan to stay in the home long enough to recoup closing costs.
Q5: What's the difference between fixed and adjustable rate mortgages?
A: Fixed-rate mortgages keep the same interest rate for the entire term, while adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) have rates that change periodically after an initial fixed period.