front-yard-colorful-flowersLiving debt-free sounds great, and depending on where you are in life it may actually be attainable. But even if you can pay off your mortgage early, should you? Although it may be tempting, first consider the opportunity cost of paying off your mortgage early at the expense of other goals or investment options, as well as the impact to your tax situation. Here are some other considerations:

Opportunity cost. By paying off your mortgage early, you’ll save on the additional interest expense that would have been incurred in your regular payments. This savings can be significant, and will increase with the prepayment amount. However, by directing excess cash towards paying down a mortgage, those funds are no longer available for investment. The lower your interest rate, the less you stand to benefit through early retirement of debt.

Taxes. For many, the ability to deduct mortgage interest is a key component to their tax strategy. Consider whether you will still be able to itemize deductions without mortgage interest. Read: Should You Pay Your Mortgage Early? Maybe Not.

Investing. Realistically consider whether you’ll invest the cash that would have been directed towards paying down your mortgage or spend it. Consider direct deposits into your brokerage account or increasing your monthly 401(k) contribution in an effort to “set it and forget it.”

Other needs. Aside from the ability to invest excess cash, are there any other more pressing goals on the horizon? Look at your whole financial situation including student loans, credit card debt and whether you have adequate emergency reserves.

Life stage. The decision to pay down a mortgage will vary depending on your life stage, risk tolerance and time horizon. If you’re nearing retirement you may have a more conservative asset allocation, and investing the excess cash in the market may mean taking on unnecessary risk. Being debt-free may also become more important later in life.

Time horizon. If you are planning to stay in your home for the long term, it makes more sense to consider overpaying your mortgage than if you don’t anticipate ever paying off the note.

The Bottom Line: As you weigh the options, set realistic expectations and ensure the proper plan is in place to achieve your objectives. Discuss the decision with your financial adviser and tax professional before committing to a strategy. As with all financial goals, it pays to be flexible. If you’re still unsure which direction is best or whether you have adequate reserves, think about opening a dedicated savings account for your excess cash flows and revisit the decision in three to six months. By separating the funds, you will be less likely to spend it on daily expenses while you consider the options. For further reading, see: Should I Pay My Mortgage Off Early?

 

Think It’s a Good Idea To Pay Your Mortgage Off Before The End Of The Loan Term? Think Again. Here’s Why You Should Possibly Hold Off On Paying Down Your Loan

2 thoughts on “Think It’s a Good Idea To Pay Your Mortgage Off Before The End Of The Loan Term? Think Again. Here’s Why You Should Possibly Hold Off On Paying Down Your Loan

  • June 30, 2016 at 1:27 am
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    what are some reasons I shouldn’t pay down my mortgage early?

    Reply
  • June 30, 2016 at 1:35 am
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    Hi Craig,

    There are a couple of reasons you shouldn’t pay down your mortgage early, but the largest one is if you cannot afford it. You must look at your budget and bank account and determine honestly, if you can afford it.

    Reply

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