The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is a standardized measure used to express the cost of borrowing money over the course of a year. It includes not only the interest rate on the loan but also any additional fees or costs associated with borrowing, such as origination fees, discount points, and mortgage insurance. The APR provides borrowers with a more accurate understanding of the total cost of borrowing and helps them compare different loan offers more effectively. It is a crucial factor to consider when evaluating loan options, as a lower APR generally indicates a more affordable loan. However, it’s important to note that the APR may not include all potential costs, such as variable-rate adjustments or prepayment penalties, so borrowers should review all terms and conditions carefully before making a decision.
When you’re shopping for a mortgage, you’ll encounter two important terms: the interest rate and the Annual Percentage Rate (APR). Understanding the difference between APR vs. Interest Rate can help you make better financial decisions whether you’re buying a home…
One of the most important mortgage disclosures you’ll examine when comparing home loan offers is the loan estimate. However, the loan estimate form contains a plethora of precise information. There are key points to keep in mind so that you…
Some homeowners purchase mortgage points, commonly called “origination points” or “discount points,” to reduce the interest they pay. Most of us will spend the most money on purchasing a home, so anything that might lower the mortgage cost is worthwhile.…
The Closing Disclosure describes the terms of your mortgage loan, including the purchase price, interest rate, estimated property taxes, insurance, closing costs, and other related expenses. You must review all five pages thoroughly as it’s one of the most important…
