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Loan Cost Comparison Calculator for Different Repayment Terms

Loan Cost Comparison Calculator for Different Repayment Terms

Loan Cost Comparison Calculator

Loan Cost Comparison Calculator

Compare various loan terms side-by-side to understand the long-term impact of interest rates and repayment periods. This professional tool calculates monthly payments, total interest, and the overall cost of borrowing across 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30-year terms instantly.

Comparison Summary

Term (Years) Monthly Payment Total Interest Total Cost

Total Interest Cost Visualization

How to Compare Loan Costs Effectively

Understanding the true cost of a loan goes beyond just looking at the monthly payment. While a 30-year mortgage might offer the lowest monthly commitment, the total interest paid over three decades can often exceed the original loan amount. This calculator helps you visualize those trade-offs in real-time.

The Mathematics of Amortization

Loans are typically paid back through amortization, where your fixed payment is split between interest and principal. In the early years, a larger portion of your payment goes toward interest. As the balance decreases, more of your payment is applied to the principal.

Why Repayment Terms Matter

Short-term loans (e.g., 5 or 10 years) usually come with lower interest rates but significantly higher monthly payments. Long-term loans (30 years) provide flexibility and lower monthly strain but result in a much higher Total Cost of Borrowing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is APR vs Interest Rate?
The interest rate is the cost to borrow the principal, while APR includes the interest rate plus any fees (like origination fees) to show the total annual cost.
Q: Can extra payments save me money?
Yes! Even a small extra monthly payment goes directly toward the principal, reducing the balance faster and saving thousands in interest.
Q: How does compounding frequency affect my loan?
The more frequently interest is compounded (e.g., daily vs. annually), the more interest you will technically owe, though most consumer loans use monthly compounding.
Q: What is a loan origination fee?
It is an upfront fee charged by a lender for processing a new loan application, typically a percentage of the total loan amount.
Q: Should I choose a 15-year or 30-year term?
Choose 15 years if you can afford the higher payment to save on interest. Choose 30 years if you need lower monthly payments for better cash flow.
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