📍 Mortgage Points Calculator

Compare two otherwise similar mortgage offers: one without discount points and one with a lower rate plus points. See how long it takes monthly payment savings to recover the upfront cost.

0 months
estimated cash break-even period
$0
Discount Point Cost
$0
Total Incremental Upfront
$0
Monthly P&I Savings
$0
Payment Without Points
$0
Payment With Points
Keep Loan ForPayment SavingsNet After Upfront Cost

What this comparison does and does not show

The calculator isolates principal-and-interest payment savings and compares them with the incremental upfront cost. It assumes the loan amount and term are the same. Taxes, insurance, escrow, mortgage insurance, tax deductibility, investment opportunity cost, and differences in unrelated lender fees are not modeled.

Use actual Loan Estimates

The CFPB explains that one point equals 1% of the loan amount, but the rate reduction per point is not fixed. Compare offers from the same day and make sure the loans have the same type, term, and features. Points should be tied to a discounted rate on the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure.

Official source: CFPB guidance on points and lender credits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is one mortgage point?
One point costs 1% of the loan amount. A lender can quote fractional points, such as 0.5 or 1.375 points.
Are points worthwhile if I refinance or sell early?
Usually not if you exit before break-even, because you stop receiving the monthly savings before they recover the upfront cost. Compare against your realistic holding period.
Should I include every closing cost?
Include costs that differ between the two offers. Costs that are identical do not change the points decision. Keep prepaids and escrow deposits separate from true lender and settlement costs.

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