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A borrower wants to compare the total interest costs of a 15-year mortgage versus a 30-year mortgage, both at 4.5% interest rate for $250,000. Which statement is most accurate?

Correct Answer

B) The 30-year mortgage will cost approximately twice as much in total interest

A 15-year mortgage typically costs roughly half the total interest of a 30-year mortgage at the same rate. This is because the shorter term significantly reduces the time for interest to compound, despite higher monthly payments. The 30-year mortgage allows more time for interest to accumulate on the outstanding balance.

Answer Options
A
The 15-year mortgage will cost approximately twice as much in total interest
B
The 30-year mortgage will cost approximately twice as much in total interest
C
Both mortgages will cost approximately the same in total interest
D
The 15-year mortgage will cost approximately 50% more in total interest

Why This Is the Correct Answer

A 15-year mortgage typically costs roughly half the total interest of a 30-year mortgage at the same rate. This is because the shorter term significantly reduces the time for interest to compound, despite higher monthly payments. The 30-year mortgage allows more time for interest to accumulate on the outstanding balance.

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