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Mortgage Loan Amortization Calculator Bankrate

Mortgage Payment Formula:

\[ PMT = P \times \frac{r \times (1 + r)^n}{(1 + r)^n - 1} \]

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1. What is Mortgage Loan Amortization?

Mortgage loan amortization is the process of paying off a debt over time through regular payments. Each payment covers both interest and principal, with the interest portion decreasing and principal portion increasing over the life of the loan.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard mortgage payment formula:

\[ PMT = P \times \frac{r \times (1 + r)^n}{(1 + r)^n - 1} \]

Where:

Explanation: This formula calculates the fixed monthly payment required to fully amortize a loan over its term, accounting for compound interest.

3. Importance of Mortgage Calculation

Details: Understanding your mortgage payments helps with budgeting, comparing loan options, and making informed decisions about home purchases and refinancing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the principal amount in USD, annual interest rate as a percentage (e.g., 3.5 for 3.5%), and loan term in years. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's included in a typical mortgage payment?
A: This calculator shows principal and interest. Actual payments may include property taxes, insurance, and PMI if applicable.

Q2: How does a higher interest rate affect payments?
A: Higher rates increase both monthly payments and total interest paid over the life of the loan.

Q3: What's the benefit of a shorter loan term?
A: Shorter terms (e.g., 15 years vs 30 years) have higher monthly payments but significantly lower total interest costs.

Q4: How can I pay less interest overall?
A: Make extra principal payments, choose a shorter term, or refinance at a lower rate when possible.

Q5: Does this calculator account for adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs)?
A: No, this calculates fixed-rate mortgages only. ARM payments change when the interest rate adjusts.

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