How Mortgages Work
A mortgage is a loan secured against property. The borrower repays the loan plus interest through regular monthly payments over an agreed term — typically 10–30 years. The monthly payment is calculated using the annuity formula to ensure equal payments throughout the term.
The Amortisation Formula
Monthly payment = P × r(1+r)ⁿ / ((1+r)ⁿ − 1), where P = principal, r = monthly interest rate (annual ÷ 12), n = total months. In early payments most of the amount covers interest; as the principal decreases, a larger share goes toward paying it off.
Reducing Total Interest Paid
- Shorter term: A 15-year loan pays far less total interest than a 30-year loan, though monthly payments are higher.
- Extra payments: Paying extra principal early reduces the remaining balance on which interest accrues.
- Lower rate: Even 0.5% lower rate over 25 years can save tens of thousands.
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