Monday, June 25, 2007

Mortgage Loan Amortization

Mortgage loan amortization schedules show the rate at which a mortgage loan accrues interest offset by the payment toward interest and principal. A definition of the word amortize is 'to provide for the gradual extinguishment of (a mortgage) usually by contribution to a sinking fund at the time of each periodic interest payment'. A fixed rate mortgage is the most sensible approach to payment plans. With the currently low interest rates, this is a great time to purchase a new home or refinance an existing balance. However, it is still important to pray about this major financial decision. "Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help" (Psalm 146:3).

Refinancing to get a lower interest rate or to cash in on equity is a great idea in today's real estate market. When a homeowner refinances, the old mortgage loan is paid off and replaced with a new one as well as a new payment schedule. The monthly payment, as well as the overall interest, will likely be lower. If refinancing with a new mortgage loan amortization schedule, the term may be changed to a shorter one resulting in saved interest by paying off the loan earlier. Homeowners can build equity much more quickly by changing the term from 30 years to 15 years while substantially cutting the interest paid.

Making extra payments, even one per year, will allow the borrower to shorten the overall term. Borrowers on a 15 year fixed rate plan can make one extra payment per year, and cut the length of their mortgage loan amortization by over 13 months, saving quite a bit in interest charges. Mortgage lending companies have become very competitive in today's real estate market because so many consumers are taking advantage of the low interest rates. Many web sites enable consumers to enter information about the lending they are seeking and have it submitted to several lending institutions, who will compete for their business.

An Internet search for home lending will yield literally millions of web sites that contain information on mortgages. Start with lenders that are recognized nationally or on a local level. Borrowers will be able to obtain a mortgage loan amortization schedule on any type of loan whether it is for purchase, construction, refinancing, an ARM, a home equity line of credit, or a second mortgage. There is no shortage of package variations among these different types of loans. Virtually anyone can qualify for some type of loan regardless of his or her credit background.

http://www.christianet.com/refinancemortgage/mortgageloanamortization.htm