Amortization Formulas:
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Definition: This calculator shows how making extra payments affects your mortgage amortization schedule, total interest paid, and loan term.
Purpose: It helps homeowners understand the impact of additional payments on their mortgage payoff timeline and interest savings.
The calculator uses these amortization formulas:
Where:
Explanation: Each month's payment is applied first to interest, then to principal. Extra payments reduce the principal faster, saving interest and shortening the loan term.
Details: Even small extra payments can significantly reduce total interest and shorten your loan term. For example, $100 extra per month on a $300,000 loan at 4% can save over $28,000 in interest and pay off the loan 4 years early.
Tips: Enter your loan amount, interest rate, loan term, and any extra payment you plan to make. The calculator will show your amortization details and savings.
Q1: How do extra payments affect my mortgage?
A: Extra payments reduce your principal balance faster, which means you pay less interest over the life of the loan and can pay off your mortgage sooner.
Q2: Should I make extra payments or invest?
A: This depends on your mortgage rate vs. expected investment returns. Generally, if your mortgage rate is higher than expected investment returns, paying extra makes sense.
Q3: How much can I save with extra payments?
A: Savings vary based on loan amount, rate, and extra payment amount. This calculator shows your specific savings.
Q4: Are there prepayment penalties?
A: Most modern mortgages don't have prepayment penalties, but check your loan documents to be sure.
Q5: Should I refinance instead?
A: If you can get a significantly lower rate, refinancing might make sense. This calculator can help compare options.