Visualizer
The term trade-off visualizer
Ledger note
Enter the loan amount and the rate each lender quoted you for each term. The visualizer shows the required principal-and-interest payment, the total interest over the term and the balance left after 5 and 10 years, side by side. Leave a term blank to skip it. Nothing is stored.
Last reviewed against the primary sources listed below.
What it leaves out
- Taxes, insurance and mortgage insurance.
- Investment returns on cash not spent on a shorter term.
- Changes in home value.
Term questions readers send
How do I compare 30-year and 15-year total interest?
Enter the same loan amount with each term's quoted rate. The visualizer shows total interest over each term.