This is a question that is asked many times. Everyone has heard of points but do you know what they are and if you should be paying for them?

Basically, points are up front fees (which I call investment) paid by the borrower to obtain a better interest rate on their loan. One point is equal to 1% of the loan amount. For example, on a $400,000 loan, if you paid a point investment, it would equate to $4000 in costs. Typically paying a point versus not paying a point will lower your interest rate. The key in determining if you should buy down the interest rate (pay points/costs) is how long you will be in the loan and to compare current interest rates to historical market trends.

Let’s take my example a little further. Let’s say paying $4000 on a $400,000 loan over not paying a point (saving $4000 in costs) would save you $50 per month (remember paying the points will get you a lower interest rate thus saving you on your monthly payment). What this means is that it would take you 80 months to recoup your $4000. What you do is divide the savings per month ($50) into what it cost ($4000) you to get that savings. If you decide to refinance or sell you home within 80 months then your money is lost. In this scenario, you would benefit from paying the points if you were to stay in the house for 80  months or longer.

Can I pay more than 1 point investment. Of course, the more you invest in buying odwn the interest rate, the lower that rate will be. Typically, rates are quoted with 1 point or no points..but you have the option to go for it and pay more than 1 point.

It is also important to take a look at where rates are from a historical perspective. If rates are at a all time low (like they are today), and you plan to be in the house for an extended period of time, it makes more sense to pay points and take advantage of the SUPER low rates. If it’s unlikely that rates will go down in the near future, then there will be no need to refinance…one and done!

On the opposite side, if rates are high, and there is a good chance rates will drop down, then paying points may not be in your best interest. The reason why is if rates drop, chances are you will refinance again and you will not have been in your current loan long enough to re-coup the points paid on your current loan.

Another consideration is tax deductibility. Let’s remember I am not an accountant and you should refer to them for advice as well. On a purchase, interest from both your points paid and your mortgage are tax deductible up front. For refinances, however, points are not deductible up front. Instead the deductions are spread out over the term of the loan, making points more costly in comparison.

Ultimately, there is a lot to consider when it comes to points and whether or not they are a worthwhile investment. An experienced mortgage professional will work with you to determine the best course of action based on your SPECIFIC needs. You should always request a loan comparison to see if paying or not paying is best for you. If you would like more information please contact me or your local lender.