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If you’re cash poor and home equity rich, a cash-out refinance could be the ticket to funding home improvements, consolidating debt, or helping with any other need. With this type of refinancing, you take out a new mortgage for a larger amount than what you have left on your current mortgage and receive the excess amount as cash.

However, getting a mortgage with a cash-out isn’t always the best route to take when you need extra money. Read on for a closer look at this form of home refinancing, including how it works, how much cash you can get, its pros and cons, and alternatives to consider.

What Is a Cash-Out Refinance?

A cash-out refinance involves taking out a new mortgage loan that will allow you to pay off your old mortgage plus receive a lump sum of cash.

Like other types of refinancing, you end up with a new mortgage which may have different rates and a longer or shorter term, as well as a new payment amortization schedule (which shows your monthly payments for the life of the loan).

The cash amount you can get is based on your home equity, or how much your home is worth compared to how much you owe. You can use the cash you receive for virtually any purpose, such as home remodeling, consolidating high-interest debt, or other financial needs.

💡 Quick tip: Thinking of using a mortgage broker? That person will try to help you save money by finding the best loan offers you are eligible for. But if you deal directly with a mortgage lender, you won’t have to pay a mortgage broker’s commission, which is usually based on the mortgage amount.

How Does a Cash-Out Refinance Work?

Just like a traditional refinance, a cash-out refinance involves replacing your existing loan with a new one, ideally with a lower interest rate, shorter term, or both.

The difference is that with a cash-out refinance, you also withdraw a portion of your home’s equity in a lump sum. The lender adds that amount to the outstanding balance on your current mortgage to determine your new loan balance.

Refinancing with a cash-out typically requires a home appraisal, which will determine your home’s current market value. Often lenders will allow you to borrow up to 80% of your home’s value, including both the existing loan balance and the amount you want to take out in the form of cash.

However, there are exceptions. Cash-out refinance loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) may allow you to borrow as much as 85% of the value of your home, while those guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may let you borrow up to 100% of your home’s value.

Cash-out refinances typically come with closing costs, which can be 2% to 6% of the loan amount. If you don’t finance these costs with the new loan, you’ll need to subtract these costs from the cash you end up with.

💡 Quick tip: Using the money you get from a cash-out refi for a home renovation can help rebuild the equity you’re taking out. Plus, you may be able to deduct the additional interest payments on your taxes.

Example of Cash-Out Refinancing

Let’s say your mortgage balance is $100,000 and your home is currently worth $300,000. This means you have $200,000 in home equity.

If you decide to get a cash-out refinance, the lender may give you 80% of the value of your home, which would be a total mortgage amount of $240,000 ($300,000 x 0.80).

From that $240,000 loan, you’ll have to pay off what you still owe on your home ($100,000), that leaves you with $140,000 (minus closing costs) you could potentially get as an get as cash. The actual amount you qualify for can vary depending on the lender, your creditworthiness, and other factors.

Common Uses of Cash-Out Refinancing

People use a cash-out refinance for a variety of purposes. These include:

•   A home improvement project (such as a kitchen remodel, a replacement HVAC system, or a new patio deck

•   Adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your property

•   Consolidating and paying off high-interest credit card debt

•   Buying a vacation home

•   Emergency expenses, such as an unexpected hospital stay or unplanned car repairs

•   Education expenses, such as college tuition

Qualifying for a Cash-Out Refinance

Here’s a look at some of the typical criteria to qualify for a cash-out refinance.

•  Credit score Lenders typically require a minimum score of 620 for a cash-out refinance.

•  DTI ratio Lenders will likely also consider your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio — which compares your monthly debt payments to monthly gross monthly income — to gauge whether you can take on additional debt. For a cash-out refinance, many lenders require a DTI no higher than 43%.

•  Sufficient equity You typically need to be able to maintain at least 20% percent equity after the cash-out refinance. This cushion also benefits you as a borrower — if the market changes and your home loses value, you don’t want to end up underwater on your mortgage.

•  Length of ownership You typically need to have owned your home for at least six months to get a cash-out refinance.

Tax Considerations

The money you get from your cash-out refinance is not considered taxable income. Also, If you use the funds you receive to buy, build, or substantially improve your home, you may be able to deduct the interest you pay on the cash portion from your income when you file your tax return every year (if you itemize deductions). If you use the funds from a cash-out refinance for other purposes, such as paying off high-interest credit card debt or covering the cost of college tuition, however, the interest paid on the cash-out portion of your new loan isn’t deductible. However, the existing mortgage balance is (up to certain limits). You’ll want to check with a tax professional for details on how a cash-out refi may impact your taxes.

Cash-Out Refi vs Home Equity Loan or HELOC

If you’re looking to access a lump sum of cash to consolidate debt or to cover a large expense, a cash-out refinance isn’t your only option. Here are some others you may want to consider.

Home Equity Line of Credit

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a revolving line of credit that works in a similar way to a credit card — you borrow what you need when you need it and only pay interest on what you borrow. Because a HELOC is secured by the equity you have in your home, however, it usually offers a higher credit limit and lower interest rate than a credit card.

HELOCs generally have a variable interest rate and an initial draw period, which can last as long as 10 years. During that time, you make interest-only payments. After the draw period ends, the credit line closes and payments with principal and interest begin. Keep in mind that HELOC payments are in addition to your current mortgage (if you have one), since the HELOC doesn’t replace your mortgage.

Home Equity Loan

A home equity loan allows you to borrow a lump sum of money at a fixed interest rate you then repay by making fixed payments over a set term, often five to 30 years. Interest rates tend to be higher than for a cash-out refinance.

As with a HELOC, taking out a home equity loan means you will be making two monthly home loan payments: one for your original mortgage and one for your new equity loan. A cash-out refinance, on the other hand, replaces your existing mortgage with a new one, resetting your mortgage term in the process.

Personal Loan

A personal loan provides you with a lump sum of money, which you can use for virtually any purpose. The loans typically come with a fixed interest rate and involve making fixed payments over a set term, typically one to five years. Unlike home equity loans, HELOCs, and cash-out refinances, these loans are typically unsecured, meaning you don’t use your home or any other asset as collateral for the loan. Personal loans usually come with higher interest rates than loans that are secured by collateral.

Pros of Cash-Out Refinancing

•  A lower mortgage interest rate With a cash-out refinance, you might be able to swap out a higher original interest rate for a lower one.

•  Lower borrowing costs A cash-out refinance can be less expensive than other types of financing, such as personal loans or credit cards.

•  May build credit If you use a cash-out refinance to pay off high-interest credit card debt, it could reduce your credit utilization (how much of your available credit you are using), a significant factor in your credit score.

•  Potential tax deduction If you use the funds for qualified home improvements, you may be able to deduct the interest on the loan when you file your taxes.

Cons of Cash-Out Refinancing

•  Higher cost than a standard refinance Because a cash-out refinance leads to less equity in your home (which poses added risk to a lender), the interest rate, fees, and closing costs are often higher than they are with a regular refinance.

•  Mortgage insurance If you take out more than 80% of your home’s equity, you will likely need to purchase private mortgage insurance (PMI).

•  Longer debt repayment If you use a cash-out refinance to pay off high-interest debts, you may end up paying off those debts for a longer period of time, potentially decades. While this can lower your monthly payment, it can mean paying more in total interest than you would have originally.

•  Foreclosure risk If you borrow more than you can afford to pay back with a cash-out refinance, you risk losing your home to foreclosure.

Is a Cash-Out Refi Right for You?

If you need access to a lump sum of cash to make home improvements or for another expense, and have been thinking about refinancing your mortgage, a cash-out refinance might be a smart move. Due to the collateral involved in a cash-out refinance (your home), rates can be lower than other types of financing. And, unlike a home equity loan or HELOC, you’ll have one, rather than two payments to make.

Just keep in mind that, as with any type of refinance, a cash-out refi means getting a new loan with different rates and terms than your current mortgage, as well as a new payment schedule.

Turn your home equity into cash with a cash-out refi. Pay down high-interest debt, or increase your home’s value with a remodel. Get your rate in a matter of minutes, without affecting your credit score.*

FAQ

Are there limitations on what the cash in a cash-out refinance can be used for?

No, you can use the cash from a cash-out refinance for anything you like. Ideally, you’ll want to use it for a project that will ultimately improve your financial situation, such as improvements to your home.

How much can you cash out with a cash-out refinance?

Often lenders will allow you to borrow up to 80% of your home’s value, including both the existing loan balance and the amount you want to take out in the form of cash. However, exactly how much you can cash out will depend on your income and credit history. Also, you typically need to be able to maintain at least 20% percent equity in your home after the cash-out refinance.

Does a borrower’s credit score affect how much they can cash out?

Yes. Lenders will typically look at your credit score, as well as other factors, to determine how large a loan they will offer you for cash-out refinance, and at what interest rate. Generally, you need a minimum score of 620 for a cash-out refinance.

Does a cash-out refi hurt your credit?

A cash-out refinance can affect your credit score in several ways, though most of them are minor.

For one, applying for the loan will trigger a hard pull, which can result in a slight, temporary, drop in your credit score. Replacing your old mortgage with a new mortgage will also lower the average age of your credit accounts, which could potentially have a small, negative impact on your score.

However, if you use a cash-out refinance to pay off debt, you might see a boost to your credit score if your credit utilization ratio drops. Credit utilization, or how much you’re borrowing compared to what’s available to you, is a critical factor in your score.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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The monthly cost of a $150K mortgage will vary depending on the type of loan, the interest rate, and the length of the loan. Mortgage loan terms are typically either 15 years or 30 years. The monthly payments for a 15-year loan are significantly higher than those for a 30-year loan, however the lifetime cost of a shorter loan term is usually lower because, overall, you will pay less interest.

There are also additional costs to consider, such as private mortgage insurance (PMI) charged on some loans, condo or HOA fees, and any hazard insurance that may be required because of the location of the home. Here’s a look at how much a $150,000 mortgage might cost per month for a 15-year and 30-year loan term.

Total Cost of a $150K Mortgage

A $150,000 30-year mortgage with a 6% interest rate costs around $900 a month. The same loan over 15 years costs around $1,266 a month. However, these are just estimates; the exact costs will depend on your loan’s term and other “hidden” costs.

The monthly payment includes the principal and interest, but additional possible line items are escrow, taxes, and insurance. There are also upfront costs, or closing costs, that are paid when the purchase is initially finalized.

Upfront Costs

Upfront costs are the costs you pay once your offer on a home has been accepted. They are typically called closing costs, and some of them might be covered by your down payment.

Earnest Money

Also known as a good faith deposit, this is the amount you put down to show the seller you are serious about buying their property. This will differ based on the price of the home.

Down Payment

Your down payment will likely be the biggest upfront cost you will have. The amount will vary depending on your lender, but typically it will be between 3% and 20% of the cost of the house. The more you can afford as a down payment, the lower your total loan will be, and the less you will have to pay each month in principal and interest. The following are the typical minimum down payments for the various types of home loans:

•   Conventional loan with mortgage insurance: 3%

•   Conventional loan without mortgage insurance: 20%

•   Federal Housing Administration loan: 3.5%

•   Veteran Affairs loan: 0%

•   U.S. Department of Agriculture loan: 0%

Closing Costs

The lender that makes your home mortgage loan will charge administration fees, including the origination fee, underwriting fees, and application fees. You can also expect to pay taxes associated with transferring the title on the property, and you may need to pay for the cost of the home’s appraisal at the closing as well.

Bear in mind that your mortgage lender may want to see that you have enough money in your bank account to pay for at least two months of mortgage payments after paying closing costs and the down payment. This amount is called “reserves.” It’s not something that you will have to pay, but it is an amount you may need to show will be available to you after you have paid other expenses.

Long-Term Costs

The biggest long-term cost of buying a home is usually the monthly mortgage payment, which includes a portion of the principal (the amount you borrowed) plus the interest. Here are some other costs you can expect:

Property Taxes

The seller or their real estate agent should be able to give you a sense of what the annual property taxes will be on your new home, although taxes may change annually.

💡 Quick Tip: Thinking of using a mortgage broker? That person will try to help you save money by finding the best loan offers you are eligible for. But if you deal directly with an online mortgage lender, you won’t have to pay a mortgage broker’s commission, which is usually based on the mortgage amount.

HOA, Condo, or Co-op Fees

Some homes are part of a condominium association, a co-op, or a Homeowners Association (HOA). Homeowners pay a monthly fee and receive benefits, such as grounds maintenance, use of a community center, or snow removal. These fees can range anywhere from $100 to $1,000 a month, depending on the association and location.

Home Upkeep

Home repair costs are highly variable but as a general rule you can expect to pay out around 1% of the home’s value each year for routine maintenance.

Insurance

You will of course need to insure your new home and its contents. You might also need to purchase hazard insurance if your area is at high risk for floods, earthquakes, wildfires, severe storms, or other natural disasters. The cost of hazard insurance can be between 0.25% to 0.33% of the home’s value for a year-long policy.

If you paid a smaller down payment, your mortgage lender may also require you to pay monthly private mortgage insurance (PMI) because you are considered a higher risk.

Estimated Monthly Payments on a $150K Mortgage

The table below shows the estimated monthly payments for a $150,000 mortgage loan for both a 15-year and a 30-year loan with interest rates varying from 4% to 8%.

How Much Interest Is Accrued on a $150K Mortgage?

The amount of interest you pay on a $150,000 mortgage will depend on the length of the loan and the interest rate. For a 15-year loan with a 6% interest rate, the interest would amount to around $77,841 over the life of the loan. For a 30-year loan with a 6% interest rate, the interest would amount to $173,757, which is more than double.

$150K Mortgage Amortization Breakdown

An amortization schedule for a mortgage loan tells you when your last payment will be. It also shows you how much of your monthly payment goes toward paying off the principal and how much goes toward paying off the interest. Most of your payment will be used to pay off the interest early on in the loan term.

Below is the mortgage amortization breakdown for a $150,000 mortgage with a 6% interest rate for a 30-year loan.

SoFi offers a mortgage calculator that shows the amortization of a property of any value and for any down payment or interest rate.

💡 Quick Tip: There are two basic types of mortgage refinancing: cash-out and rate-and-term. A cash-out refinance loan means getting a larger loan than what you currently owe, while a rate-and-term refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a new one with different terms.

What Is Required to Get a $150K Mortgage?

Getting any mortgage usually requires both an adequate income and a large enough down payment. This home affordability calculator shows you how much of a mortgage you can afford based on your gross annual income, your monthly spending, your down payment, and the interest rate.

The Takeaway

The payments on a $150,000 mortgage will depend on the term of the loan and the interest rate. As a general rule, the shorter the term of the loan, the less interest you will pay over its lifespan.

In addition to your $150,000 mortgage payment, you can also expect to pay upfront closing costs and additional costs over the years that you are a homeowner. SoFi’s home loan help center has information and calculators that can help you decide how much of a mortgage you can afford considering the upfront and hidden costs. There are special considerations — and special mortgage assistance programs — if you are a first-time buyer.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

What will monthly payments be for a $150K mortgage?

Your monthly payment for a $150,000 mortgage will depend on the interest rate and the term of the loan. The payment for a $150,000 30-year mortgage with a 6% interest rate is approximately $900. The same loan over 15 years costs $1,266 each month.

How much do I need to earn to afford a $150K mortgage loan?

Assuming you go with a 30-year mortgage at an interest rate of 6%, you would need to earn about $50,000 a year in order to cover your mortgage plus insurance and property taxes. (As a general rule, lenders recommend these costs not exceed 28% of your gross earnings.)

How much down payment is required for a $150K mortgage loan?

The down payment you are expected to pay on a home depends on the lender. The more you pay upfront, the lower your loan amount and the lower your payments will be. Conventional wisdom says your down payment should be 20%. Some lenders will accept a down payment as low as 3%, but you may have to purchase private mortgage insurance.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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We’ve all seen them: houses that look forlorn, decrepit, unlived in. Maybe the weeds are tall and the paint is peeling. These are signs of a zombie foreclosure: a homeowner essentially abandons the property, often after receiving a notice of impending foreclosure.

What Is a Zombie Foreclosure?

A zombie foreclosure typically occurs when a homeowner defaults on their mortgage and believes they must vacate the premises immediately. In other cases, the homeowner may leave for any number of other reasons.

Even if someone defaults on a mortgage, they are not absolved from all responsibilities until the lender completes the foreclosure process. Until then, the homeowner is usually still responsible for the mortgage, maintenance, homeowners association (HOA) fees, and other costs.

At last count, more than 8,000 zombie homes existed nationwide, with overall numbers increasing 5.4% from late 2022 to early 2023. The greatest number of zombie foreclosures is in New York, Florida, and Ohio. Although the number of zombie homes remains small, it will likely continue to increase as foreclosure rates increase.

Recommended: Cost of Living By State

How Does a Home Become a Zombie Foreclosure?

A zombie foreclosure can sound scary, but it’s best to be aware of how they happen to avoid the worst consequences. A home often becomes a zombie foreclosure after the homeowner defaults on the mortgage. When this happens, the homeowner typically receives a foreclosure notice from the mortgage lender. They might believe they must leave immediately, abandoning their home as a result.

But while they turn their back on a home they believe has “died,” the home lives on and still has a laundry list of responsibilities. This means mortgage payments, maintenance, HOA fees, property taxes, and more. The current homeowner still holds the title and is still responsible for all these items until the foreclosure process is complete.

Complicating the picture, lenders sometimes decide not to complete the foreclosure process. There can be many reasons for this, but the most common is that the lender determines that foreclosing on the home isn’t worth it. Foreclosed homes often need significant repairs, and there might be a large amount of back taxes to pay.

While zombie foreclosures only make up a small percentage of all foreclosures, they do happen. Just because someone receives a foreclosure notice doesn’t mean the home is no longer their responsibility. That’s why it’s wise to follow up with the mortgage lender and await official communication before leaving for good.

Consequences of a Zombie Foreclosure

A zombie foreclosure is not a good thing for anyone involved. There can be a range of issues for the owner and the home’s neighbors.

Impact on Homeowners

As mentioned earlier, you are still responsible for your home if you receive a foreclosure notice. If you abandon the property before the foreclosure process is complete, you might face some serious consequences:

•   Penalties and fees: If the foreclosure process drags on, it could result in the accrual of interest, penalties, and fees. These can increase the financial burden you were already experiencing.

•   Damage to your credit: A zombie foreclosure can seriously damage your credit because it may result in a home mortgage loan default. This can make it very difficult to obtain loans in the future, including new mortgages, auto loans, and personal loans.

•   Legal consequences: Not making your payments could result in a variety of lawsuits. For instance, the city might sue you over unpaid property taxes. Or the homeowners association might sue you to collect its fees.

As you can see, the consequences of a zombie foreclosure can be significant. Therefore, seeking legal advice to understand your rights and responsibilities in these situations is best. In addition, you should ensure all paperwork is complete before you leave the property for the last time.

Impact on Neighbors

The homeowner who abandons a property may not be the only one who suffers. There may also be consequences for neighbors:

•   Increase in crime: Squatting, vandalism, and theft are just a few of the types of crimes that might occur after a zombie foreclosure.

•   Public health issues: Foreclosed homes are often neglected, leading to overgrown yards. This can attract mosquitoes and other pests that can spread diseases.

•   Costs for the local government: Someone must take care of a neglected home, and that job often falls to the local government. This can then lead to higher taxes for people in the area.

Impact on the Housing Market

The broader housing market can also be impaired due to zombie foreclosures. However, some opportunistic investors may also take advantage of the situation. Here are some of the potential impacts on the local housing market:

•   Decrease in property values: A zombie foreclosure can cause a home to become an eyesore and a hazard to the local community. This can make the neighborhood less desirable as a whole, leading to a decrease in property values across the board.

•   Decrease in new construction: New builders may be hesitant to pursue projects where there are zombie foreclosures. They might believe they can’t compete with the low prices of foreclosed homes.

•   Opportunities for investors: While zombie foreclosures’ impacts are mostly negative, they can also lead to opportunity. Investors can purchase these homes at bargain-bin prices, renovate them, and either sell or rent them.

While they can create opportunities for investors, most zombie foreclosures’ impacts on the housing market are negative. As a whole, local communities generally suffer the consequences as a result. One way for owners to reduce the risk of a zombie foreclosure is to ensure a home is affordable for them from the outset.

Considerations If Purchasing a Zombie Foreclosure

While zombie foreclosures may have a discounted price tag, there is much to consider before moving forward. First, there can be legal complexities that complicate the process. For instance, the home may be in pre-foreclosure, the foreclosure may not have been properly completed, or there may be liens on the property. You must understand these complexities when purchasing a zombie foreclosure. Working with a real estate attorney with experience in this area is best.

You should also consider the condition of the property. Those that have been abandoned can have a range of issues, such as structural damage, mold, or vandalism. Some of these issues are more costly to fix than others. Thus, the home will need a thorough inspection to understand what repairs it may need.

Another important consideration is financing. Some lenders might be hesitant to finance homes in poor condition. You might need to explore alternative financing options, such as a renovation loan. Or you might even have to pay cash. Either way, more flexibility may be necessary when dealing with zombie foreclosures.

The Takeaway

Zombie foreclosures typically occur when a homeowner vacates the premises after receiving a foreclosure notice but before the foreclosure process is complete. Zombie foreclosures can hurt both homeowners and the local community. Therefore, homeowners may want to avoid this situation by remaining in their homes until they receive a notice to vacate and trying to stay current on mortgage payments, property taxes, and HOA fees.

Mortgages can be complicated, but SoFi Home Loans tries to make things simple.

FAQ

What are zombie mortgages?

Zombie mortgages are outstanding home loans that borrowers have stopped making payments on, often because they thought the debt was forgiven or settled long ago. In some cases, these can be second mortgages that a borrower may not even be aware of. It is not always legal for lenders to try to collect on these debts.

What is the foreclosure rate in the United States?

The foreclosure rate is 1.3% in the United States, according to the second-quarter 2023 Vacant Property and Zombie Foreclosure Report from ATTOM Data Solutions. While an increasing number of homeowners have faced foreclosure since the nationwide foreclosure moratorium was lifted, foreclosure rates are historically low.

What city has the most foreclosures?

Among cities with a population of at least 200,000, the top three foreclosure rates for the first quarter of 2023 are in Fayetteville, North Carolina (one in every 526 housing units), Cleveland, Ohio (one in 582), and Atlantic City, New Jersey (one in 661), according to ATTOM Data Solutions.

Photo credit: iStock/Derek Broussard

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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If you’re thinking of applying for a $600K mortgage, here’s the bottom line: The monthly payment on this mortgage at a 7% annual percentage rate (APR) for 30 years works out to be $3,991.81.

If you would rather finance with a 15-year mortgage, the monthly payment would be $5,392.97.

A higher monthly payment on a 15-year mortgage term does cost more every month, but the savings over the life of the loan are huge. Interest costs for a 30-year loan exceed $830,000, while the interest costs on a 15-year loan are closer to $370,000. That’s quite a difference.

And, of course, interest rates are not static. The rates you are offered when you apply for a loan will vary over time. Just a short while ago, many borrowers would have access to an interest rate approximately half the current 7% figure. A 3.5% APR with the same 600K mortgage over 30 years would result in a monthly payment of $2,694.27. That’s the power interest rates have on your mortgage and monthly payment.

Keep reading to learn about all the costs involved on a $600,000 mortgage and how they affect your monthly payment.

Total Cost of a 600K Mortgage

The cost of a 600K mortgage goes beyond the monthly payment. You’ll have upfront costs, like the down payment and closing costs, as well as the long-term interest costs.

Upfront Costs

When you acquire a mortgage, your upfront costs include your down payment and closing costs.

•   Closing costs: Closing costs, or settlement costs, are what you pay to obtain the mortgage and property title. It varies, but you’ll usually pay for an appraisal, origination fee, prepaids, tax service provider fees, government taxes, and title insurance. The average closing cost on a new home is somewhere between 3% and 6%. For a $600,000 mortgage, that’s between $18,000 and $36,000.

•   Down payment: According to the National Association of Realtors, the average down payment on a home is 13%. For a $600,000 home, that’s a $78,000 down payment. Other common down payments include:

•   3%: $18,000

•   3.5%: $21,000

•   5%: $30,000

•   20%: $120,000.

Recommended: Home Loan Help Center

Long-Term Costs

The long-term costs of a 600K mortgage are also important to consider. They’re considerable. If you pay on your 600K mortgage for all 30 years at that 7% APR, you’ll pay over $800,000 in interest costs alone, as mentioned above. For 15 years, that amount comes down to $370,000.

You can play around with our mortgage payment calculator if you’re interested in seeing the difference that APR and loan term make on a monthly payment.

Estimated Monthly Payments of a 600K Mortgage

The monthly payments on a 600K mortgage can vary widely. How much house can you afford depends not only on the down payment but also the monthly payment you’re able to make. Your interest rate and loan term are important factors to consider.

Monthly Payment Breakdown by APR and Term

It’s helpful to see what your monthly payment would be based on different interest rates and loan terms for a 600K mortgage loan.

This chart can help you understand how mortgage APR works and impacts your costs.

How Much Interest Is Accrued on a 600K Mortgage?

There’s another factor to consider when choosing a mortgage term for a 600K mortgage: the interest that will accrue.

If you pay the exact amount of your monthly payment on a 600K mortgage for an entire 30-year term with a 7% APR, you will pay $837,053 in interest. Adding in your 600K mortgage brings the total amount you will pay to $1,437,053.

A 15 vs. 30 year mortgage tells a different story when it comes to how much interest you pay. A 15-year loan on a 600K mortgage with a 7% interest rate has a larger monthly payment at $5,392.97, but the interest cost is $370,734.53. Compare that with the $837,053 interest costs of a 30-year loan, or $3,991.81 per month. In terms of total costs, the 15-year loan will add up to $970,734.53, while the 30-year mortgage equals $1,437,053 for principal plus interest.

600K Mortgage Amortization Breakdown

We’ve already discussed how the total cost of a 600K mortgage is over 1.4 million dollars. When you look at how much of your monthly payment is applied to the principal loan amount (this is also called amortization), it’s easy to see how you end up paying so much in interest costs.

Amortization schedules are set so that more of your monthly payment goes toward interest than principal in the beginning. Toward the end of your loan, more of your monthly payment goes toward the principal amount of the loan.

Looking at the amortization schedule can help you see the full picture of what you’re paying on your 600K mortgage payment and perhaps choose which type of mortgage loan is best for you.

The amortization schedule below assumes a 7% interest rate over 30 years. The amount does not include insurance or taxes; it’s principal and interest for informational purposes only.

What Is Required to Get a 600K Mortgage?

You need to have an income sufficient to afford the monthly payments on a 600K mortgage.

Lenders generally look for your monthly payment to be no more than 28% of your gross income. For a 600K mortgage with a $3,991.81 payment, you would need to make $14,256 per month, or $171,077 per year (without any debt) to comfortably afford the mortgage payment.

Other factors, such as your credit score, will likely come into play as well in getting approved for a 600K mortgage.

How Much House Can You Afford Quiz

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyer Guide

The Takeaway

A 600k mortgage payment at 7% for 30 years would be $3992 per month. When you’re budgeting for a mortgage, it’s smart to consider all the costs, including the monthly payment and what a smaller monthly payment means for your long-term costs. Deciding whether to pay more each month and less over the life of the loan or vice versa can have a significant impact on your financial outlook and how you grow your personal wealth.

When you’re ready to take the next step toward a mortgage, consider what SoFi has to offer. With competitive interest rates, flexible loan terms, and a simple application process, your 600K mortgage could become a reality.

FAQ

How much would a $600,000 mortgage cost per month?

A monthly payment on a 600K mortgage at 7% APR would be $3,991.81. This is the amount of principal and interest and does not include the escrowed amounts.

What is the average monthly payment on a 500k mortgage?

A monthly payment on a 500K mortgage would be $3,326.51 on a 30-year term with a 7% APR.

How much do you need to make a year to afford a $500,000 home?

A 30-year $500,000 loan with a 7% APR boils down to a $3,326.51 monthly payment. For $3,326.51 to meet the 28% income guideline for lenders, you would need to make $11,880 a month, or about $142,560 per year. And this amount is only possible if you have no other debts.

Photo credit: iStock/FabioBalbi

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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An interest-only mortgage lets you pay just interest for a set period of time, typically between seven and 10 years, as opposed to paying interest plus principal from the beginning of the loan term.

While interest-only mortgages can mean lower payments for a while, they also mean you aren’t building up equity (ownership) in your home. Plus, you will likely have a big jump in payments when the interest-only period ends and you are repaying both interest and principal.

Read on to learn how interest-only mortgages work, their pros and cons, and who might consider getting one.

Note: SoFi does not offer interest only mortgages at this time. However, SoFi does offer conventional mortgage loan options.

How Do Interest-Only Mortgages Work?

With an interest-only mortgage, you solely make interest payments for the first several years of the loan. During this time, your payments won’t reduce the principal and you won’t build equity in your home.

When the interest-only period ends, you generally have a few options: You can continue to pay off the loan, making higher payments that include interest and principal; look to refinance the loan (which can provide for new terms and potentially lower interest payments with the principal); or choose to sell the home (or use saved up cash) to fully pay off the loan.

Usually, interest-only loans are structured as a type of adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). The interest rate is fixed at first then, after a specified number of years, the interest rate increases or decreases periodically based on market rates. ARMs usually have lower starting interest rates than fixed-rate loans, but their rates can be higher during the adjustable period. Fixed-rate interest-only mortgages are uncommon.

An interest-only mortgage typically starts out with a lower initial payment than other types of mortgages, and you can stick with those payments as long as 10 years before making any payments toward the principal. However, you typically end up paying more in overall interest than you would with a traditional mortgage.

💡 Quick Tip: When house hunting, don’t forget to lock in your mortgage loan rate so there are no surprises if your offer is accepted.

Interest-Only Loan Pros and Cons

Before you choose to take out an interest-only mortgage, it’s a good idea to carefully weigh both the benefits and drawbacks.

Pros

•  Lower initial payments The initial monthly payments on interest-only loans tend to be significantly lower than payments on regular mortgages, since they don’t include any principal.

•  Lower interest rate Because interest-only mortgages are usually structured as ARMs, initial rates are often lower than those for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages.

•  Frees up cash flow With a lower monthly payment, you may be able to set aside some extra money for other goals and investments.

•  Delays higher payments An interest-only mortgage allows you to defer large payments into future years when your income may be higher.

•  Tax benefits Since you can deduct mortgage interest on your tax return, an interest-only mortgage could result in significant tax savings during the interest-only payment phase.

Cons

•  Cost more overall Though your initial payments will be smaller, the total amount of interest you will pay over the life of the loan will likely be higher than with a principal-and-interest mortgage.

•  Interest-only payments don’t build equity You won’t build equity in your home unless you make extra payments toward the principal during the interest-only period. That means you won’t be able to borrow against the equity in your home with a home equity loan or home equity line of credit.

•  Payments will increase down the road When payments start to include principal, they will get significantly higher. Depending on market rates, the interest rate may also go up after the initial fixed-rate period.

•  You can’t count on refinance If your home loses value, it could deplete the equity you had from your down payment, making refinancing a challenge.

•  Strict qualification requirements Lenders often have higher down payment requirements and stricter qualification criteria for interest-only mortgages.

Recommended: What Is Considered a Good Mortgage Rate?

Who Might Want an Interest-Only Loan?

You may want to consider an interest-only mortgage loan if:

•  You want short-term cash flow A very low payment during the interest-only period could help free up cash. If you can use that cash for another investment opportunity, it might more than cover the added expense of this type of mortgage.

•  You plan to own the home for a short time If you’re planning to sell before the interest-only period is up, an interest-only mortgage might make sense, especially if home values are appreciating in your area.

•  You’re buying a retirement home If you’re nearing retirement, you might use an interest-only loan to buy a vacation home that will become your primary home after you stop working. When you sell off your first home, you can use the money to pay off the interest-only loan.

•  You expect an income increase or windfall If you expect to have a significant bump up in income or access to a large lump sum by the time the interest period ends, you might be able to buy more house with an interest-only loan.

Recommended: Tips for Shopping for Mortgage Rates

Qualifying for an Interest-Only Loan

Interest-only loans aren’t qualified mortgages, which means they don’t meet the backing criteria for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the other government entities that insure mortgages. As a result, these loans pose more risk to a lender and, therefore, can be more difficult to qualify for.

In general, you may need the following to get approved for an interest-only loan:

•  A minimum credit score of 700 or higher

•  A debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of 43% or lower

•  A down payment of at least 20% to 30% percent

•  Sufficient income and assets to repay the loan

The Takeaway

An interest-only mortgage generally isn’t ideal for most home-buyers, including first-time home-buyers. However, this type of mortgage can be a useful tool for some borrowers with strong credit who fully understand the risks involved and are looking at short-term ownership or have a plan for how they will cover the step-up in payment amounts that will come down the road.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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