Calculate whether buying mortgage discount points is worth it. Find your break-even period and lifetime savings.
Typically 0.25% per point
60 months to recover $8,000 cost
Rate reduced to 6.750%
| Loan Amount | $400,000 |
| Points Purchased | 2 points |
| Cost of Points | $8,000 |
| Original Interest Rate | 7.25% |
| New Interest Rate | 6.750% |
| Original Monthly Payment | $2,729 |
| New Monthly Payment | $2,594 |
| Monthly Savings | $134 |
| Break-Even Period | 60 months (5.0 yrs) |
| Lifetime Interest Savings (net) | $40,353 |
Instant delivery ยท No spam ยท Unsubscribe anytime
No spam, ever. We only email you about topics you care about. Unsubscribe anytime.
Point Cost = Loan Amount ร Points ร 1%
Break-Even = Cost of Points รท Monthly Payment Savings
Lifetime Savings = Monthly Savings ร Loan Term โ Cost of Points
One mortgage point equals 1% of your loan amount paid upfront at closing. Each point typically reduces your interest rate by 0.25% (though this varies by lender and market conditions). It's essentially prepaying interest for a lower rate.
Break-even = Cost of points รท Monthly savings. Example: $4,000 in points saves $80/month = 50-month break-even. If you stay beyond 50 months, buying points was a smart financial move.
Yes! Points paid on a home purchase are generally fully deductible in the year paid (if you itemize). For refinances, the deduction is amortized over the loan life. Consult a tax advisor for your situation.
Buying points makes sense if: (1) you plan to stay in the home past the break-even point, (2) you have cash available that wouldn't earn more elsewhere, and (3) you won't refinance before break-even. Avoid points if you may move or refi within a few years.
Discount points are prepaid interest that lowers your rate. Origination points (or origination fees) are lender compensation for processing your loan. Both cost 1% of loan per point but serve different purposes. This calculator covers discount points only.
Calculations are for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified financial advisor for personalized advice.