APR vs. interest rate: what it is and when to focus on each The interest rate is the annual percentage the lender charges on the outstanding principal of your mortgage — the number most advertised. APR (Annual Percentage Rate) converts the interest rate plus many upfront finance charges into a single annualized figure so you…
What a rate lock and a float-down are — and when they make sense A rate lock is an agreement between a borrower and a lender that guarantees a specific interest rate on a refinance for a set period (commonly 30, 45, 60, or 90 days). Once you lock, the lender promises the quoted rate…
Lender Credits vs Paying Points at Refinance: Which Is Right for You? When refinancing your mortgage you’ll often be offered a choice: accept lender credits (a higher rate in exchange for the lender covering some closing costs) or pay discount points upfront to lower your interest rate. Both options reduce your out‑of‑pocket costs or monthly…
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Rate Buydowns on Refinance: Temporary vs Permanent When refinancing your mortgage you may be offered ways to lower your interest rate either temporarily or permanently by paying “points” or accepting a structured buy down. Understanding the difference between temporary and permanent buydowns, how they affect monthly payments, and which fits your financial goals can help…
Are refinance points tax-deductible? If you paid points when you refinanced your mortgage, you probably want to know whether you can deduct them on your tax return. The short, practical answer for most homeowners: points paid to refinance are generally deductible, but not all at once. They must usually be deducted over the life of…
Mortgage Points on a Refinance Explained When refinancing your mortgage you may see the option to buy mortgage points. Points can reduce your interest rate in exchange for an upfront fee. This guide explains what points are, when they make sense, the benefits and drawbacks, typical costs and fees, a step-by-step how-to, common pitfalls to…