Questions about the calculator, PMI, and how this site works.

Yes, completely. There's no signup required to calculate your monthly payment. We only ask for an email address if you want the free downloadable checklist.

The principal-and-interest portion uses the standard amortization formula lenders use. Property tax, insurance, and PMI are estimates based on common national averages — your local tax rate and insurance quote will differ, sometimes significantly by state and provider. Treat the result as a close planning estimate, not a guaranteed payment.

Private Mortgage Insurance is typically required on conventional loans when your down payment is under 20% of the home's price. It protects the lender against default risk, not you, and can usually be removed once your loan balance drops to 80% of the home's original value (or sooner with a new appraisal, depending on your lender).

We're an independent, ad-supported site. If you click through to compare rates with our lender partner, Truss Financial Group, and end up working with them, we may earn a referral commission — at no additional cost to you. This never affects the calculator results, which are the same for every visitor. Full details are in our affiliate disclosure.

No. If you request the free checklist, your email is used to deliver that PDF and occasional related mortgage tips — nothing else. See our privacy policy for the full picture.

No. We don't originate loans, underwrite applications, or make lending decisions of any kind. We're an independent calculator and information site that can connect you with a lender partner if you choose to compare rates.

Mortgage rates move with the broader market and vary based on your credit profile, loan type, and lender. Rather than guess a single "current rate" that would be stale within days, the calculator lets you set the rate yourself — so you can model your own credit profile or a real quote you've already received.