Question

What do you think is the advantage and disadvantage of repaying installment debt over a long period of time?

Answer 1

Explanation:

Long-term financing is a common need when you want to make large purchases, such as with a home, car or boat. You may also get a home equity loan or personal loan to cover education, home renovation or business start-up costs. You need to understand the advantages that come with the ability to repay these borrowed funds through installments over a long period of time.

Low Monthly Payments

The monthly payments on long-term financing are usually low. If you borrow $100,000 to buy a house at a 5 percent fixed interest rate with a 30-year repayment period, your monthly payment of principal and interest is $536.82. These small monthly installments improve your ability to budget effectively for other monthly expenses, including utilities, groceries, clothes and kids' needs.

Interest Benefits

Interest rates on long-term building or asset loans are usually low when you secure the loan with the asset. The low cost of borrowing adds justification to the financial benefits of repaying the debt in small installments over time. A home equity loan with a 10 to 15 year repayment period typically offers a better interest rate than credit cards or personal loans with shorter repayment periods. Additionally, the interest on mortgages and home equity financing is usually tax deductible. According to "Kiplinger" many homeowners are actually better off taking a 30-year mortgage at a slightly higher interest rate than a 15 to 20 mortgage largely because of the tax deductions.