Understand the numbers
A mortgage payment is driven mainly by the amount borrowed, interest rate and loan term. This calculator can also account for common housing costs such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues and mortgage insurance when those values are entered.
Calculation method
The principal-and-interest portion uses a standard fixed-payment amortization calculation. Other entered monthly housing costs are then added to show a broader estimated monthly payment.
Example
Example: a $400,000 home with a $80,000 down payment leaves an estimated $320,000 loan amount before financed fees or other adjustments. The monthly principal and interest then depends on the rate and term entered.
Useful checks
- Use an interest rate that reflects the scenario you are evaluating.
- Include taxes, insurance, HOA and PMI when applicable.
- Compare the payment with your full household budget, not just lender qualification limits.