Mortgage Calculator
Mortgage calculator inputs
A mortgage calculator is an essential tool for anyone planning to buy a home or refinance their existing mortgage. By using our calculator, you can estimate your monthly mortgage payments to get a better understanding of what you can afford.
Let’s break down the different components of our mortgage calculator and explain how each one works. We’ll also give you some tips on how to use the calculator to get the most accurate estimate of your monthly payments.
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Home price
When it comes to buying a house, home price is one of the most significant factors that homebuyers have to consider. Various factors influence home prices, such as location, market trends, and property features. Understanding these factors can help you determine a reasonable home price range.
Generally, the larger the home price, the higher the mortgage payment will be. That’s why it’s essential to calculate the maximum amount you can afford to pay for a house based on your income and debt.
Down payment
The down payment is the money you plan to pay upfront. It also plays a significant role in determining the amount of your monthly mortgage payments. Generally, the larger your down payment, the lower your mortgage payment will be.
A standard down payment for a conventional loan is 20%. For example, if your home’s price is $250,000, your expected down payment would be $50,000. The down payment shows lenders that you have a vested interest in your property and your ability to make timely payments.
There are exceptions to the 20% down payment rule, however. For example, VA loans and FHA loans are government-backed loan programs that allow for much smaller down payments. With a VA loan, qualifying veterans and service members can purchase a home with no down payment. FHA loans generally necessitate a 3.5% down payment. These initiatives aim to facilitate homeownership for individuals who may not possess substantial savings earmarked for a down payment, thus increasing accessibility.
Some lenders offer low down payment programs, with down payments as low as 3-5%. As with any major financial decision, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons and determine what down payment amount works best for your financial situation.
Loan term
When taking out a loan, the loan term refers to the length of time over which the borrower will repay the loan. Loan terms typically range from 3 to 30 years, though some loans may have terms outside of that range.
Borrowers need to consider their financial situation and ability to make monthly payments when choosing a loan term. Longer loan terms may result in lower monthly payments, but higher overall interest costs. Conversely, shorter loan terms can save on interest but require higher monthly payments.
Interest rate
The interest rate on a mortgage loan is the percentage of the principal balance that a borrower pays to borrow the money. The interest rate will depend on several factors, including the type of loan, the loan amount, the down payment amount, your credit history, and market trends.
The type of loan you choose will also affect the rate. Fixed-rate loans generally have higher interest rates than adjustable-rate loans because the lender is locking in their return over a longer period.
Zip code
The zip code of the property can have a significant impact on mortgage payments. One important factor affected by the zip code is the property tax rate. Property taxes are assessed annually based on the value of the property and the tax rates of the locality. Higher property values and tax rates in certain zip codes can lead to increased property taxes and, consequently, higher mortgage payments.
Additionally, the zip code can impact your insurance premiums. Insurance companies assess premiums based on risk factors such as the likelihood of natural disasters or crime rates in the area. Higher-risk zip codes are often associated with higher insurance premiums, which can also increase mortgage payments.
Property tax
Property taxes are an unavoidable aspect of homeownership that every homeowner must be aware of. Property tax is a tax levied by the local government on the property that the homeowner owns. The tax is based on the assessed value of the property, which is determined by the local government and is based on factors such as the property’s size, location, condition, and other relevant factors.
The amount of property taxes paid by a homeowner can vary greatly depending on the location and the value of the property. The national average for property taxes is roughly 1%, but it can vary widely. For example, New Jersey’s average property tax rate is 2.49%, while Hawaii’s is 0.28%.
Homeowners need to understand the impact of property taxes on their monthly mortgage payments. Consider a home with an assessed value of $500,000 and an average property tax rate of 1%. The monthly property tax payment is $416.
Home insurance
Home insurance, also known as homeowner’s insurance, is a type of insurance that protects homeowners from unexpected damage to their property and belongings. It covers losses from theft, damage from natural disasters, and liability lawsuits that may arise on the property.
When obtaining a mortgage, lenders often require homeowners to have insurance coverage. The required coverage may vary based on the location of the property and the potential hazards that may exist in that area. In 2023, the average monthly home insurance premium is $120.
HOA dues
This field is optional, as not every home will be part of a homeowner’s association. HOA dues are ongoing fees that homeowners in specific neighborhoods or communities, such as condominiums or planned communities, pay to ensure the maintenance and upkeep of shared amenities and common areas. The average monthly HOA dues are around $200 but vary widely.
These fees cover the costs of community-wide services such as landscaping, security, trash collection, and maintenance of shared facilities like pools, gyms, or parks. Information about HOA fees is generally available through the property listing or the real estate agent handling the sale.
Homeowners should carefully consider the cost of HOA dues when calculating their monthly mortgage payments. HOA fees can add a significant ongoing cost to homeownership, and failure to pay these fees can result in penalties or even legal action.
How a mortgage payment calculator helps you
A mortgage payment calculator is a valuable tool for anyone considering purchasing a home or refinancing their existing mortgage. It’ll help you get an idea of what a monthly mortgage will cost, but also:
- Helps narrow down your home search based on your estimated monthly payments.
- Saves you time and effort by eliminating homes that are outside of your budget.
- Allows you to try out different loan scenarios to get a better idea of what term or rate to shoot for.
- Makes comparison shopping easier when it comes to comparing different lenders and their terms.
You’ll be able to compare the costs of different loan terms, interest rates, and down payment amounts. This information is useful when making decisions about the type of mortgage you want and how much you want to put down on the home.
How to calculate mortgage payments
Calculating mortgage payments involves using a simple formula that takes into account the principal loan amount, monthly interest rate, and number of payments.
The formula is as follows:
M = P [ i(1 + i)^n ] / [ (1 + i)^n – 1]
Where:
- M = Monthly mortgage payment
- P = Principal loan amount
- i = Monthly interest rate (calculated by dividing the annual interest rate by 12)
- n = Number of payments (calculated by multiplying the number of years by 12)
For example, let’s say you have a $300,000 15-year fixed-rate mortgage with an interest rate of 3%. Using the formula, your monthly mortgage payment would be $2,071.74.
Similarly, for a $500,000 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with an interest rate of 4%, the monthly payment would be $2,387.08.
Knowing how to calculate mortgage payments is crucial when making informed decisions about home ownership. By plugging in different variables, you can easily compare different loan options to find the most suitable one for your financial situation.
Key mortgage terms explained
Mortgages can be complex, and it’s important to understand the key inputs above, but also some other common terms you’ll hear throughout the process, including:
Fixed-rate vs adjustable-rate mortgages
When it comes to mortgages, you’ll likely come across two different types of interest rates: fixed-rate and adjustable-rate.
A fixed-rate mortgage means that your interest rate will remain the same throughout the life of your loan, regardless of any market shifts or economic changes. This type of mortgage offers predictability and stability, as your monthly payments will remain fixed for the entirety of your mortgage term, which is typically 15 or 30 years.
On the other hand, an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) means that your interest rate can change after a specified period, usually several years. These changes are typically tied to an index, such as the prime rate, and can result in higher or lower monthly payments. ARMs often start with lower interest rates than fixed-rate mortgages, making them a tempting option for those looking to lower their initial costs.
The interest rate you choose will impact your monthly payments for both types of mortgages. A fixed-rate mortgage offers the security of a stable, predictable payment, but you may end up paying more in interest overall. With an adjustable-rate mortgage, your payments may start lower, but they can fluctuate over time, potentially making them unpredictable and harder to budget for.
Overall, choosing between a fixed-rate and an adjustable-rate mortgage depends on your financial situation and plans. A fixed-rate mortgage is a great choice if you value stability and predictability, while an adjustable-rate mortgage may be ideal if you plan on moving or refinancing the mortgage within a few years.
Conforming loans vs non-conforming home loans
When applying for a mortgage, you’ll want to understand the difference between conforming loans and non-conforming loans. Conforming loans adhere to specific eligibility criteria set forth by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac which include loan amount and credit score standards. These criteria vary by geographic location, but generally, the maximum loan amount for a conforming loan is $726,200 for 2023.
The eligibility criteria for non-conforming loans, often referred to as jumbo loans, are not standardized and can vary across lenders. Non-conforming loans typically have a higher loan amount and require a higher credit score, making them more difficult to obtain.
Pricing for these two loan types can differ among lenders as well. Conforming loans often have more favorable interest rates due to standardized criteria and lower risk. Non-conforming loans sometimes have a higher interest rate because of the added risk to the lender. These differences can have significant effects on monthly mortgage payments.
Types of home loans
When shopping for a home loan, it’s important to know your options and choose one that suits your budget and needs. Here are five key types of home loans:
1. Conventional loans: These are traditional mortgages that aren’t guaranteed or insured by the government. They usually require a higher credit score and down payment but have more flexibility in terms of loan limits and property types.
2. Jumbo mortgages: These are loans that exceed the conforming loan limit set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. They’re usually for high-value properties and require a larger down payment and a higher credit score.
3. FHA loans: These are government-backed loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration. They have lower credit and down payment requirements but require mortgage insurance premiums.
4. USDA loans: These are also government-backed loans that are designed for rural and suburban homebuyers with low to moderate incomes. They offer 100% financing and have low-interest rates.
5. VA loans: These are loans for veterans and active-duty military members that are guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. They offer 100% financing and have low-interest rates and no mortgage insurance requirements.
When considering a home loan, it’s important to speak with a lender and weigh all the options to find the best fit for your financial situation.
How to decide how much house you can afford
When considering purchasing a home, your first step is determining how much home you can afford based on your monthly income, existing debt, and available down payment. A good rule of thumb is to keep your mortgage payment to less than 28% of your income.
For example, if your household income is $6,000 per month, you’ll want to keep your monthly mortgage and housing costs to $1,680 or lower.
Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is also an essential factor in assessing affordability. As a general rule, your DTI ratio should be no higher than 36%, including your existing debt payments and your projected monthly mortgage payment.
For example, if your household income is $5,000 per month, you’ll want to keep your monthly debt payments (mortgage included) to $1,800 and below.
To further assess your affordability, carefully evaluate your budget; start by:
- Calculating your monthly income, including your salary, bonuses, and any other recurring sources of income.
- Determining your monthly expenses, including your current debt payments, such as car loans and credit cards.
- Factoring in any potential expenses you may incur after homeownership, such as maintenance and property taxes.
Once you have calculated your income and expenses, you can then begin to factor in other financial goals like retirement and emergency savings. It’s essential to keep in mind that owning a home is not just a financial investment but also an emotional investment.
Tips to help lower your monthly mortgage payment
Lowering your monthly mortgage payment can make a significant difference in your budget and financial goals. Here are some practical tips to help reduce your monthly mortgage payments:
1. Find a lower interest rate: One of the most effective ways to lower your monthly mortgage payment is by lowering your mortgage interest rate. You can get a lower mortgage rate by improving your credit score and shopping around with mortgage lenders. If you already have a mortgage and are looking for a lower rate, you’ll want to refinance, but be mindful of closing costs that can cancel out any benefit of a lower rate.
2. Increase your down payment: If you find the monthly mortgage payment from the mortgage calculator is a bit too steep, you can try to increase your down payment to lower the payment. A higher down payment reduces the amount you have to borrow, but putting more down can also lower your interest rate.
3. Avoid PMI: Going hand-in-hand with a higher down payment is the ability to avoid having to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI). Borrowers who put down less than 20% of the purchase price may be required to pay PMI. The cost of PMI will depend on your credit score, but the average for borrowers with fair credit starts at 1.5%. PMI is charged at a percent of the outstanding loan balance. For example, if your average outstanding loan balance for the year is $250,000, you’d pay $312.50 a month in PMI. You’ll be required to pay PMI until your loan balance falls to 80% of the home’s value.
4. Buy points: Points are fees paid upfront to lower the interest rate on your mortgage. Each point costs 1% of your mortgage amount but can reduce your interest rate by 0.25%. Buying points can be helpful if you have extra cash and expect to live in your home for several years. You’ll want to do the math to determine whether it makes sense to put extra cash toward a higher down payment or buying points.
5. Choose a lower home price: Choosing a less expensive home is another effective way of lowering your monthly mortgage payment. Consider your budget and home preferences to strike a balance between your costs and your desired home.
6. Lengthen your loan term: A longer loan term, such as a 30-year term instead of a 15-year one, will reduce your monthly mortgage payment. However, it will also increase your total interest paid. So, while lengthening the amount of time you’ll have a mortgage reduces the monthly mortgage payment, it might not be cost-effective in the long run.
These are some of the most common ways to lower your monthly mortgage payment. Evaluate your budget, assess your options, and consider your financial goals when making your decision.
Next steps in the home buying process
After determining how much house you can afford using a mortgage calculator and obtaining a mortgage pre-approval, the next steps in the home buying process involve finding a real estate agent, searching for a suitable property, making an offer, and completing the closing process.
Once you find a suitable property, you’ll make an offer to the seller. Your real estate agent can help you draft an offer letter and negotiate terms with the seller. When the seller accepts your offer, the closing process begins.
The closing process involves various steps, such as a home inspection, appraisal, and title search. You’ll also need to secure a homeowner’s insurance policy and obtain the necessary funds to cover closing costs.
After verifying the property’s condition and ensuring that all requirements are met, you’ll sign the necessary documents, pay the closing costs, and receive the keys to your new home.
Frequently asked questions about mortgages
Prequalification is an estimate of how much you might be able to borrow based on the information you provide to a lender. Preapproval is a more rigorous process that involves submitting a mortgage application and providing documentation of your income, assets, and debts. Preapproval gives you a better idea of the loan amount and interest rate you qualify for and can help you shop for homes within your budget.
What is the difference between prequalification and preapproval?
Buying a home is a significant investment, and it’s important to be well-informed about the process of obtaining a mortgage. Here are some frequently asked questions about mortgages that can help you understand the mortgage process and make informed decisions when purchasing a home:
How much down payment do you need for a mortgage?
When obtaining a mortgage, the down payment amount plays a crucial role as it affects the loan-to-value ratio and the overall affordability of a mortgage. Many lenders require a minimum down payment amount to qualify for a mortgage, but the amount varies depending on the type of loan.
For conventional loans, the minimum down payment ranges from 3% to 20% depending on the lender and the borrower’s credit history. For an FHA loan, borrowers are required to put down a minimum of 3.5% of the purchase price. For VA loans, no down payment is required for eligible borrowers. USDA loans require no down payment for low-to-moderate-income borrowers in designated rural and suburban areas.
Can monthly mortgage payments go up?
Yes, monthly mortgage payments can go up due to several factors. Note that if you have a fixed-rate mortgage, the principal and interest portion of your mortgage will never change. However, an increase in your property tax rate or home’s assessed value means higher property taxes. Higher premiums for your home insurance can also increase your monthly mortgage.
With an ARM the interest rate can adjust periodically, causing an increase or decrease in the monthly payment. The adjustment period for an ARM can be as short as one year or as long as ten years, depending on the loan terms. Late payment fees can also cause an increase in the monthly mortgage payment.
Do you need a mortgage pre-approval to buy a home?
No, mortgage pre-approval is not a required step for buying a home. Pre-approval is the process of having a lender evaluate your financial status and creditworthiness to approve a specific loan amount. However, with pre-approval, you’ll be able to determine your budget and financial limitations. This approval can also give buyers an edge over other competitors while making an offer on a home, as sellers generally prefer buyers who already have approval.
How does a larger down payment affect your mortgage payments?
When it comes to taking out a mortgage for a new home, the size of your down payment can make a significant difference in your monthly mortgage payments. A larger down payment means borrowing less money, resulting in lower monthly payments over time. Essentially, the more you can put down upfront, the less you’ll be paying in the long run.
In addition, a down payment of 20% of the home’s value significantly improves your chances of getting the best mortgage rates available. Having a higher down payment shows lenders that you are financially stable with a lower risk of defaulting on the loan, which can lead to lower interest rates.
While it can be tempting to put down the minimum required amount, it’s important to consider the long-term financial benefits of a larger down payment. Not only will you have lower monthly payments, but you’ll also have more equity in your home from the beginning.
In summary, a larger down payment can positively impact your mortgage payments by lowering them and improving your chances of securing the best mortgage rates. It’s always recommended to save up as much as possible for a down payment to ensure long-term financial stability.
What's the difference between PMI and home insurance?
PMI is designed to minimize the lender’s financial risk, while homeowners insurance is designed to protect the borrower’s investment in their home. While PMI payments are tied to the loan balance, homeowners insurance premiums are based on the value of the home and the level of coverage needed.
PMI protects the lender against the risk of the borrower defaulting on the loan. Homeowners insurance protects the borrower from various risks and hazards that could damage the home, personal belongings, and finances.