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Comparing Biweekly Payments and Lump Sum Payments to See Which Saves More

October 31, 2025 by Kay Monigold

Homeowners looking to save on interest or shorten their loan term often explore two popular strategies: biweekly payments and lump sum payments. Both can reduce the total interest paid and help you build equity faster, but they work in different ways. Understanding how each method functions can help you decide which fits your financial goals and lifestyle best.

How Biweekly Payments Work
With a biweekly payment plan, you make half of your monthly mortgage payment every two weeks instead of one full payment each month. Since there are 52 weeks in a year, you end up making 26 half-payments, which equals 13 full payments annually instead of 12. That one extra payment each year directly reduces your principal balance.

Over time, this extra payment can save thousands of dollars in interest and help you pay off your mortgage several years early. The best part is that the change feels manageable, since you are simply splitting your payments into smaller amounts rather than paying a large lump sum all at once.

How Lump Sum Payments Work
A lump sum payment involves making an additional one-time payment toward your principal, usually once a year or whenever you receive extra income. This could come from a tax refund, bonus, or inheritance. The lump sum goes directly toward reducing your loan balance, which lowers the amount of interest you pay over time.

Even small lump sum payments can have a big impact if made early in your loan term. The sooner you reduce your principal, the less interest accrues, accelerating your path to becoming debt-free.

Pros and Cons of Each Strategy
Both methods help you save on interest and shorten your loan term, but they differ in flexibility and commitment.

  • Biweekly payments create a steady habit and gradually reduce your balance. However, not all lenders offer official biweekly plans, so you may need to set it up manually.
  • Lump sum payments give you flexibility. You can contribute whenever you have extra funds, but it requires discipline to set aside money and remember to apply it toward your mortgage.

The right choice depends on your financial situation. If consistent budgeting works best for you, biweekly payments might be ideal. If your income fluctuates or you prefer flexibility, lump sums may be a better fit.

Both biweekly and lump sum payment strategies can save you money and help you pay off your home faster. Whether you choose regular smaller payments or occasional larger ones, the goal is to reduce your principal sooner and cut down on interest. Give us a call to discuss which option works best for your loan type and financial goals.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Ownership, Mortgage Advice, Mortgage Tips

How to Lower Payments Without Refinancing

October 24, 2025 by Kay Monigold

Many homeowners want to reduce their monthly mortgage payments but hesitate to refinance. Refinancing can come with closing costs, new loan terms, and time-consuming paperwork. The good news is that there are several ways to lower your payment without refinancing. 

Recast Your Mortgage
One option is a mortgage recast. This allows you to make a large lump-sum payment toward your principal balance, which lowers your monthly payments for the remainder of the loan. The benefit is that your interest rate and loan term remain the same, but your payment drops because you owe less overall. Not all lenders offer recasting, but if yours does, it is usually a simple and low-cost process compared to refinancing.

Eliminate Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
If your down payment was less than 20 percent when you bought your home, you may still be paying PMI. Once your loan balance drops below 80 percent of your home’s current value, you can request to remove PMI. Having your home reappraised can help prove that your equity has grown enough to qualify.

Appeal Your Property Taxes
Property taxes make up a big part of your monthly mortgage payment. If you believe your home has been overvalued by your local tax assessor, you can appeal the assessment. Even a small reduction can create meaningful monthly savings.

Adjust Your Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners insurance is another area where you might be able to save. Shop around to compare policies, increase your deductible, or bundle your home and auto insurance with one provider. Just be sure your coverage still meets your lender’s requirements and protects your home properly.

Set Up Automatic Payments or Biweekly Plans
Some lenders offer discounts for setting up automatic payments, which can lower your rate slightly or help you avoid late fees. You can also consider biweekly payments. Although this will not reduce your individual payment, it helps you pay down your principal faster, which lowers interest costs over time.

Lowering your mortgage payment does not always require a full refinance. Whether through recasting, removing PMI, adjusting insurance, or appealing taxes, small changes can make a big difference. Talk with your lender or mortgage professional to explore the options available to you. With the right strategy, you can keep your home affordable and your financial goals on track.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Homeownership, Mortgage Savings, Mortgage Tips

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Our Team

Kay MonigoldKay Monigold
Owner/Mortgage Broker/Residential Mortgage Loan Originator
NMLS#1086176

Steven LoweSteven P Lowe, Sr
Residential Mortgage Loan Originator
NMLS #1085638

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