Mortgage Points Calculator

Each discount point costs 1% of your loan and typically lowers your rate by 0.25%. Find your exact break-even date and whether buying points makes sense for your timeline.

1 Loan Details

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2 Points to Purchase

pts
%
Points cost
Rate after points

Break-Even Point

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Monthly Savings

with points vs without

Points Cost

upfront at closing

Total Interest Saved

over full loan term

Net Lifetime Savings

after recouping cost

Net Savings by How Long You Stay

Positive = buying points was worth it at this horizon

Years in Home Gross Savings Net (after points cost) Verdict
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Points Comparison (0 – 3 points)

Points Rate Cost Payment Break-Even
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What Are Mortgage Points?

Discount points are prepaid interest you pay at closing to permanently lower your mortgage rate. One point equals 1% of the loan amount.

On a $400,000 loan, 1 point costs $4,000 upfront and typically reduces your rate by 0.25%, saving about $55/month on a 30-year mortgage.

The key question is: will you stay long enough to recoup that upfront cost? This calculator gives you the exact answer.

When to Buy Points

  • You plan to stay in the home past the break-even date
  • You have the cash available at closing
  • Rates are high and you won't be refinancing soon
  • You might sell or refinance within a few years
  • The cash could earn more invested elsewhere

Points are also tax-deductible in the year paid for a primary residence purchase — consult a tax advisor for your situation.

After deciding, use the Mortgage Calculator with your bought-down rate to see your full PITI payment.

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