By Carrie Courtillet

Jul 22, 2020

Annual Percentage Rate- Annual percentage rate is expressed as the periodic interest rate times the number of compounding periods in a year (also known as the nominal interest rate); since the APR must include certain non-interest charges and fees, it requires more detailed calculation. An annual percentage rate (APR) is the annual rate charged for borrowing or earned through an investment.

Like an interest rate, the APR is expressed as a percentage. The Federal Truth in Lending Act requires that every consumer loan agreement disclose the APR. All lenders must follow the same rules to ensure the accuracy of the APR.

The annual percentage rate (APR) can be seen on your mortgage loan disclosures and is calculated by including mortgage lender fees and other items that will affect your monthly payment – like private mortgage insurance or PMI. It does not consider monthly escrow payments to homeowners insurance or property taxes.

The rate is calculated by multiplying the periodic interest rate by the number of periods in a year in which the periodic rate is applied. It does not indicate how many times the rate is applied to the balance.

*graphic provided by ivestopedica.com

Unlike interest rate, APR includes the following costs and fees in the calculation:

  • Discount Points
  • Private Mortgage Insurance
  • Lender Origination Costs

The APR must be disclosed to the borrower within 3 days of applying for a mortgage and is found on the truth in lending disclosure statement, which also includes an amortization schedule.

For more information about APR and other mortgage terminology, feel free to contact one of our Home Loan Consultants.

These blogs are for informational purposes only. Make sure you understand the features associated with the loan program you choose, and that it meets your unique financial needs. Subject to Debt-to-Income and Underwriting requirements. This is not a credit decision or a commitment to lend. Eligibility is subject to completion of an application and verification of home ownership, occupancy, title, income, employment, credit, home value, collateral, and underwriting requirements. Not all programs are available in all areas. Offers may vary and are subject to change at any time without notice. Should you have any questions about the information provided, please contact us.