Points, as defined, are fees that lenders or creditors use in order to pull down interest rates that they impose on loans taken out by borrowers. In the loan process, this usually is characterized to be a confusing factor for the borrower. Points are not advantageous to the part of the borrower. On the contrary, it is more beneficial to the part of the creditor.
Points is basically the term used to refer to the fees you will have to pay when you are taking out a loan. Points are often referred to as discount fees, loan-original fees or buy-down fees. One point is equivalent to 1% of the amount you are borrowing. So let’s say you are taking out a $100,000 mortgage. One point would be equivalent to 1% of $100,000, which is $1,000.
Now, the lender is charging you 5% interest rate on the mortgage. Suppose you gain 2 points. This is equivalent to 2% of the loan amount and 2% off the interest rate. In this example, that’s $2,000. This means if you pay the lender $2,000 up front, the remaining balance on your loan will only be charged 3% instead of 5%. Basically, the more points you pay on the loan upfront, the lower the interest rate your lender will charge you on a loan.
Points can be advantageous in one instance. One example is when you are buying a newly built house. There are times that the house developer would offer to pay for the points on a loan. If your developer or builder offers to pay for the points on a loan, this can provide you relief; this actually helps you save money off your loan.
There are instances when points are advantageous and not advantageous. It is to your advantage if someone else offers to pay the points for you. It isn’t a good idea if you end up having to pay the fee for the points yourself.
James Williams is a former small business owner. He specializes in business management, trading, real estate and finance. For more information on loans and finance visit http://lendersandfinancing.com/