Pros & cons to paying off a mortgage

posted by askmrmortgages on (5 years, 11 months ago)

Paying off your mortgage loan may seem like the best possible financial move, but things are not always as they seem. The most obvious reason to pay off your mortgage as soon as possible is that it will save you a great deal of money. When you sign for loan papers, you can see that the lender discloses that you could pay double the purchase price of the home by the time the loan is paid off.

The second reason is personal financial security. The lower your monthly mortgage payment, the less you have to worry about making enough money to pay it. Additionally, if you do not have a home loan payment, unemployment and retirement is less frightening. The main concern people have in regard to their finances is paying their rent or mortgage each month.

On the other hand, people disagree stating that paying off your mortgage is financially-- the wrong move. One defense states that you could make more money in the long run if you invest the additional principal of your mortgage payments instead.

With low interest rates, the benefits of paying off your mortgage are not as terrific as they were in the past. The average loan rate is about 6%, which is actually closer to 5% after interest tax deductions.

Before you rush to pay off your loan, think twice. Do you need the extra money? For example, if you have debts on high-interest credit cards, you should pay those off before making extra payments on your mortgage.

Also, it is smart to make sure you diversify all your investments. Having a mortgage gives you more control on your finances. Your down payment is tucked safely away in your property. Instead of adding more money under that metaphorical mattress, invest in your retirement account-- at least up to the employer match, and contribute to your IRA.

Most importantly, make sure you have liquid funds accessible in an interest-bearing account, in case of emergencies. Money put into your mortgage loan is not actually liquid.

It is your choice. If the security of owning your home weighs out any of the reasons stated above, that is up to you. Just be sure to consider your options. After all, they always say you shouldn't put all your eggs in one basket, right?

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