08/21/2026
🏡 **Before you ask, “What’s your rate?” — ask this instead.**
When you're shopping for a mortgage, the lowest advertised interest rate isn't necessarily the best deal.
That rate may come with **discount points, lender fees, or other costs** that can take years to recover.
Here’s a simple example:
A lender might offer you:
**6.25% with $6,000 in points**
or
**6.50% with little or no points**
The lower rate sounds better — but is it?
If paying that extra $6,000 only saves you $100 a month, it takes **5 YEARS just to break even.**
And if you refinance or sell before then? You may never recover that money.
đź’ˇ **The better question is:**
**“What is my total cost for this loan, and how long will it take me to break even?”**
A good mortgage professional shouldn't just quote you a rate. They should help you understand **what you're paying to get it.**
Buying a home is expensive enough. Make sure your mortgage actually makes sense for *you*.
— Pash Amini
Mortgage Broker | Indie Mortgage
