Mortgage Calculator

Plan your home loan with confidence

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Your Home Buying Journey

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Check affordability vs income

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Smart Mortgage Tips

Essential knowledge for first-time homebuyers

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Aim for 20% Down

A 20% down payment helps you avoid PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance), which can add $100-300+ to your monthly payment.

Source: CFPB

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The 28/36 Rule

Keep housing costs below 28% of gross income, and total debt below 36%. Lenders use this to assess affordability.

Source: FDIC

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Budget for Extras

Beyond the mortgage: property taxes (1-2% of home value), home insurance ($1,000-2,000/year), maintenance (1% of home value annually).

Source: Bankrate

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Rate Shopping Pays

Just 0.5% difference in rate can save $50-100/month. Get quotes from at least 3 lenders. All within 30 days counts as one credit inquiry.

Source: CFPB

Extra Payments Matter

One extra monthly payment per year can shave 4-6 years off a 30-year mortgage and save tens of thousands in interest.

Source: Freddie Mac

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Fixed vs Variable

Fixed rates offer stability. Variable (ARM) rates start lower but can increase. Choose fixed if you plan to stay 5+ years.

Source: CFPB

15-Year vs 30-Year Mortgage

Factor 15-Year 30-Year
Monthly Payment Higher (~50% more) Lower (more affordable)
Interest Rate Typically 0.5-0.75% lower Slightly higher
Total Interest Paid Much less (50-60% savings) Significantly more
Equity Building Faster (paid off in 15 years) Slower (paid off in 30 years)
Best For High income, long-term stability First-time buyers, budget flexibility

Sources: Data based on analysis from Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey, and Bank of England mortgage data (2024-2025).

Common Questions

How much house can I afford?
A common rule is that your monthly housing payment (including mortgage, taxes, insurance) should not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. For example, if you earn $75,000/year ($6,250/month), aim for housing costs under $1,750/month. This calculator shows your affordability percentage automatically.
What’s included in a monthly mortgage payment?
Most mortgage payments include PITI: Principal (loan paydown), Interest (lender’s fee), Taxes (property tax), and Insurance (homeowners insurance). If you put down less than 20%, you’ll also pay PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance).
Should I pay off my mortgage early?
It depends on your interest rate and other financial goals. If your rate is above 5-6%, paying extra saves significant interest. If it’s below 4%, you might get better returns investing that money elsewhere. Always keep an emergency fund first.
What credit score do I need?
Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 620 for conventional loans. FHA loans may accept scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down. Higher scores (740+) get you the best interest rates.
What’s PMI and how do I avoid it?
PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) is required when you put down less than 20%. It typically costs 0.5-1% of the loan amount annually. To avoid it: save for a 20% down payment, or once you reach 20% equity through payments/appreciation, request PMI removal.
Fixed vs adjustable rate—which is better?
Fixed-rate mortgages keep the same rate for the entire loan term, providing stability and predictable payments. Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) start with a lower rate but can change after an initial period. Choose fixed if you’re staying 5+ years. Consider an ARM only if you’re confident you’ll move or refinance before the rate adjusts.

Disclaimer: This mortgage calculator provides estimates for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Actual mortgage payments may vary based on additional factors such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA fees, PMI, and closing costs. Interest rates and loan terms are subject to change and lender approval. Always consult with a licensed mortgage professional or financial advisor for personalized guidance tailored to your specific financial situation.

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