Guides
Plain-English explanations with worked examples, each paired with a free calculator.
Is Recasting a Mortgage Worth It?
Recasting lowers your mortgage payment without a new loan. See worked examples, what it costs, who qualifies, and when keeping your old payment saves more.
Recast vs Refinance vs Paying Extra: Which Saves More?
Side-by-side math for the three ways to use a lump sum on your mortgage: recast, refinance or extra principal. Compare payments, payoff dates and total cost.
How Much Does One Extra Mortgage Payment a Year Save?
One extra mortgage payment a year can cut years off a 30-year loan. See worked examples at several loan sizes and rates, the 1/12 trick, and biweekly plans.
Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early or Invest?
Compare prepaying your mortgage with investing the same cash. See worked examples at different returns and tax rates, plus the non-math factors that matter.
When Does Refinancing Pay Off? Break-Even Explained
Learn how to calculate a refinance break-even point, why the new loan term matters as much as the rate, and when rolling in closing costs makes sense.