A mortgage is a loan that allows you to purchase real estate (usually a home). In exchange, the lender agrees to let you borrow money against the value of the property. The lender usually requires you to make a down payment and pay interest on the loan, and you must make your payments according to a set schedule. If you do not make your payments on time, the lender can foreclose on the property and sell it.
There are several types of mortgages, depending on your situation and the type of real estate you are buying. There are also different interest rates and terms, so it is important to understand the differences.
The Mortgage Amortization Calculator helps you determine how much your monthly payments will be over the life of your mortgage. Choose a loan term up to 30 years, then enter your interest rate to get an estimate of your monthly payment.
Your monthly mortgage payment consists of four components: Principal, Interest, Taxes and Insurance. These are all part of your overall housing costs and can impact how much equity you have in your home.
Typically, the amount of the Principal portion of your mortgage payment is calculated as a percentage of the original loan balance. During the early years of your mortgage, a higher percentage of each payment goes toward interest, while as your mortgage matures and your loan balance decreases, the Principal component of your mortgage payment will increase.
If you are purchasing a newly constructed home, your mortgage payment may also include payments for the new construction costs associated with the build. These fees are often held in an escrow account until they are due and then paid on your behalf.
The property taxes and homeowners insurance that are associated with your home are usually included as part of your monthly mortgage payments and held in an escrow account until they become due. The lender may then use the funds to pay these bills on your behalf when they become due.
In some cases, lenders will require a co-signer, or someone with good credit who is agreeing to help you with your mortgage. A co-signer will be required to agree to a contract stating that they are responsible for your mortgage in the event of your failure to repay it.
Before applying for a mortgage, you should carefully consider your budget and other financial priorities. While it is important to have a decent down payment and a good credit score, you must be able to afford the monthly mortgage payments while still being able to save for other goals.
If your income is too high to qualify for a mortgage, or you have significant debt, it may be best to look for a more affordable alternative. For example, if your goal is to pay for college, you can find a student loan that is less costly than a traditional mortgage.
When choosing your loan, it is a good idea to shop around for the most competitive interest rates and loan products. Doing so can save you money in the long run, as it will lower your total costs over the life of your mortgage.