How to use a mortgage calculator effectively

Mortgages

Mortgage calculators can be useful tools for estimating monthly mortgage payments and comparing different mortgage options. Whether you're looking to buy a house for the first time or remortgage your current home, a mortgage calculator can help you determine your affordability. This article will guide you through the process of using a mortgage calculator effectively to get the most benefit.

Understanding mortgage calculators

A mortgage calculator, typically found online and often free of charge helps you estimate your potential mortgage payments. It considers various factors, such as the property's price, the amount of your deposit and the interest rate, to provide a clear picture of your financial obligations.

Why are they helpful?

It’s important to have an idea of the potential mortgage amount you’ll be offered, otherwise you may look at homes or mortgages that are unsuitable to you and your financial situation, which could make the house hunting process more difficult than it needs to be. A mortgage calculator is easy to use and gives you an idea of your anticipated monthly payments, based on the mortgage amount you expect to achieve, helping you to plan for the type of property you could afford. Having a realistic budget will help make the process of house hunting more efficient.

Image showing a close up of someone using a calculator

Having a realistic budget will help make the process of house hunting more efficient.

Steps to use a mortgage calculator effectively

Using a mortgage calculator is quick and straightforward if you follow these simple instructions:

Enter the property price
Begin by entering the price of the property that you are considering. You can find this information on the property listing.

Input your deposit amount
Enter the amount of the deposit you have saved or expect to have saved. Then, you may have to determine what percentage of the property price this deposit represents, however many calculators automatically calculate this percentage for you once you input the deposit amount.

Adjust the interest rate and loan term
Enter the expected interest rate into the calculator. Many mortgage calculators will allow you to adjust the interest rate and see how different rates and mortgage durations affect your monthly payments. Similarly, input the loan term (the number of years over which you plan to repay the mortgage) for an accurate figure.

Review monthly payments and other costs
Once you have entered all the necessary information, the calculator will provide an estimated monthly payment. This will give you an idea of what you could afford to pay per month.

Compare different mortgage options
To use the mortgage calculator effectively, compare different properties and mortgage types to help you understand what your options are. This way, you can assess the information and determine the deposit required and mortgage amount you are likely to be offered, and whether this will fit your financial situation and allow you to purchase your dream home.

Combining the mortgage calculator with professional advice

Mortgage calculators are a great resource and a really good starting point; however, they are no substitute for professional mortgage advice. Combing the help of a mortgage calculator with professional financial advice from a qualified mortgage broker can help to ensure that the mortgage process is as smooth as possible.

Get in touch today for more information.