1. Make Bi-Weekly Payments
One popular strategy is to make bi-weekly payments instead of a monthly payment. By doing this, you’ll end up making 26 half-payments per year, which is the equivalent of 13 full payments. This extra payment can significantly reduce the length of your loan term and save you a substantial amount of interest in the long run.
2. Increase Your Monthly Payment
If making bi-weekly payments doesn’t fit your budget, you can still pay off your mortgage early by increasing your monthly payment. Even a small increase can make a big difference over time. Consider allocating any extra money you have towards your mortgage payment each month. This can be achieved by cutting expenses in other areas of your budget or by increasing your income through a side hustle.
3. Refinance to a Shorter Loan Term
Another strategy is to refinance your mortgage to a shorter loan term. If you currently have a 30-year mortgage, consider refinancing to a 15 or 20-year term. Although your monthly payments may increase, the overall interest you’ll pay will be significantly reduced, and you’ll pay off your mortgage much faster.
4. Make Lump Sum Payments
If you receive an unexpected bonus, tax refund, or inheritance, consider making a lump sum payment towards your mortgage. These additional payments can cut several years off your loan term. Just make sure to inform your lender that the additional payment should be applied towards the principal balance, rather than future payments.
5. Explore Loan Recasting
Loan recasting is an option that allows you to make a significant payment towards the principal balance of your mortgage, followed by a recalculation of your monthly payments based on the reduced balance. This strategy can reduce your monthly payments while keeping your original loan term intact. It’s an excellent option for those who have a lump sum to contribute but don’t want to refinance or alter the loan term.
6. Automate Your Extra Payments
One effective way to ensure you stay on track with your goal of paying off your mortgage early is to automate your extra payments. Set up automatic transfers from your bank account to your mortgage lender specifically for paying down the principal. This way, you won’t be tempted to use the extra money elsewhere, and it becomes a regular part of your budget.
While paying off your mortgage early may require some sacrifices and discipline, the financial benefits and peace of mind you’ll gain make it well worth the effort. Whether you choose to make bi-weekly payments, increase your monthly payment, refinance, make lump sum payments, explore loan recasting, or automate your extra payments, each strategy will bring you closer to being mortgage-free. Assess your financial situation and choose the method that works best for you, and start extinguishing your loan ahead of schedule today!