Cernarus

Home Loan APR Calculator

This advanced calculator helps homeowners and borrowers compare standard monthly schedules with bi‑weekly payment schedules, estimate an APR that includes upfront fees (approximate), and project payoff timing when adding extra payments. Use the tool to understand tradeoffs and to validate lender disclosures.

Results are estimates based on mathematical amortization models and the inputs you provide. The calculator includes explanatory notes on assumptions, known limitations, and references to standards for accuracy and security practices.

Updated Nov 23, 2025

Compute equivalent monthly and bi‑weekly payments, estimate total paid and interest saved when using bi‑weekly payments (26 payments/year) versus monthly payments (12 payments/year). This method assumes nominal APR is specified as an annual rate and interest compounds with the same periodic convention used below.

Inputs

Results

Updates as you type

Equivalent monthly payment

$1,347.13

Bi‑weekly payment (every 2 weeks)

$621.48

Estimated interest saved (approx.)

$214.96

OutputValueUnit
Equivalent monthly payment$1,347.13USD
Bi‑weekly payment (every 2 weeks)$621.48USD
Estimated interest saved (approx.)$214.96USD
Primary result$1,347.13

Visualization

Methodology

Payment calculations use standard amortization formulas: periodic rate = annual rate / periods per year; payment = P * r / (1 - (1+r)^-N). Bi‑weekly schedules assume 26 equal payments per year. Results presented are deterministic outputs of these formulas.

APR estimate amortizes upfront fees evenly over the loan term and adds that annualized cost to the nominal rate as an approximation. This estimate is for comparison only; legally required APR disclosures follow regulatory definitions and rounded iterative methods that lenders apply.

Worked examples

Example: $300,000 loan, 3.5% annual rate, 30 years: calculated monthly payment, bi‑weekly payment, and an approximate interest saved figure are shown for comparison.

Example: Adding $200 extra per month shows reduced months to payoff and estimated interest savings vs scheduled payments alone.

Key takeaways

Use this tool to compare schedules, get a quick APR estimate including fees, and test the impact of extra payments on payoff time and interest. For binding APR disclosures and advice for your specific loan, consult your lender or a qualified advisor.

Further resources

External guidance

Expert Q&A

Does making bi‑weekly payments always save interest?

Bi‑weekly schedules typically accelerate principal reduction because there are 26 half‑payments per year (equivalent to 13 monthly payments). Savings depend on how the lender posts payments and whether payments are applied immediately to principal.

Is the APR shown here the legally required APR?

No. The APR estimate here is an approximate amortization of upfront fees for quick comparison. Lenders compute APR using regulatory methods and may include other finance charges and timing adjustments. For legal APR, rely on your lender disclosure.

How accurate are payoff projections?

Projections use standard amortization math and assume constant interest rate, timely payments, and that extra payments reduce principal immediately. Actual results vary if you prepay, miss payments, or the loan has adjustable rates or fees.

Can this calculator handle adjustable rates or balloon features?

No. This tool assumes a fixed nominal annual rate and standard amortizing schedule. For adjustable or nonstandard loans, use a specialized planner or consult your lender.

Sources & citations