Interest Rate Buy Downs Explained

Dated: February 22 2023

Views: 6

If you're in the market to purchase a home, you may have heard the term "interest rate buy down." This is a strategy that can help you save money on your mortgage by reducing your interest rate. But what exactly is an interest rate buy down, and what are the differences between permanent and temporary buy downs?

An interest rate buy down is a strategy that allows you to pay upfront to reduce your interest rate for a certain period of time. Essentially, you are paying a lump sum to your lender to buy down your interest rate, which will result in lower monthly mortgage payments. The amount you pay and the length of the buy down will depend on the terms you negotiate with your lender.

There are two types of interest rate buy downs: permanent and temporary. A permanent buy down is a one-time payment that reduces your interest rate for the entire life of your loan. This means that you'll have lower monthly mortgage payments for the entire duration of your mortgage. Permanent buy downs can be a great option if you plan to stay in your home for a long time, as they can result in significant long-term savings.

On the other hand, a temporary buy down is a payment that reduces your interest rate for a set period of time, such as the first few years of your mortgage. After the temporary period expires, your interest rate will reset to its original rate. Temporary buy downs can be a good option if you plan to sell your home before the buy down period ends, as they can help you save money on your mortgage while you own the home.

So which type of buy down is right for you? It really depends on your personal financial goals and your plans for your home. If you plan to stay in your home for a long time and want to save as much money as possible over the life of your mortgage, a permanent buy down may be the best choice for you. If, on the other hand, you plan to sell your home within a few years, a temporary buy down may be a better option.

Ultimately, an interest rate buy down can be a valuable tool for saving money on your mortgage. By paying upfront to reduce your interest rate, you can enjoy lower monthly payments and significant long-term savings. If you're considering a buy down, be sure to work with an experienced mortgage professional who can help you determine the best strategy for your financial situation.

Blog author image

Masyn Barney

Hi, my name is Masyn Barney and I am a licensed real estate agent specializing in residential real estate in Utah County. I am a proud husband and father to a beautiful daughter and my family is my bi....

Latest Blog Posts

Hard Money - Worth the Cost?

Real estate investing often requires capital beyond what traditional lenders are willing to provide. This is where hard money loans can come into play. Hard money is a type of loan that is secured

Read More

In-State vs. Out-of-State Investing

Investing in real estate can be a lucrative venture for many people, but it's important to understand the different options available. One of the most significant considerations for real estate

Read More

IRR - Internal Rate of Return

When investing in real estate, one of the key metrics that investors use to evaluate potential investments is the internal rate of return (IRR). IRR is a measure of an investment's profitability and

Read More

Payson not Masyn Utah

Payson, Utah is a small city located in the southern part of Utah County. Here are some of the reasons why you may want to consider living in Payson:Natural Beauty: Payson is surrounded by stunning

Read More