12 calculators

Loan Types & Programs Calculators

Compare FHA, reverse, balloon and piggyback structures, and the classic 15- versus 30-year question.

About these calculators

Not every mortgage works the same way. The calculators here model the major loan programs on their own terms — FHA with its upfront and annual MIP, VA with the funding fee and no PMI, USDA’s zero-down guarantee, and jumbo loans above the conforming limit.

Compare a 15- against a 30-year, price a second mortgage or balloon structure, or estimate a reverse mortgage’s proceeds. Each tool builds in the program’s specific costs so the payment you see reflects the loan you’d actually get.

Common questions

Loan Types & Programs calculators — frequently asked

What are the main types of mortgages?

Conventional loans (following Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac), the government-backed FHA, VA and USDA loans, and jumbo loans above the conforming limit. Specialty structures include reverse mortgages, balloon loans and second mortgages. Each has its own down payment, credit and insurance rules.

FHA vs conventional — which is better?

FHA if your credit is in the 580–669 range or your down payment is small; conventional if your credit is 620+ and you can drop PMI within a few years, since FHA’s mortgage insurance usually lasts the life of the loan.

Should I get a 15- or 30-year mortgage?

A 15-year carries a higher payment but a lower rate and far less total interest; a 30-year keeps payments low and flexible. Pick 15 if the higher payment fits comfortably, 30 if you value breathing room or want to invest the difference.

Which loan type requires no down payment?

VA loans (for eligible veterans and service members) and USDA loans (for eligible rural and suburban buyers under income limits) both allow 0% down. FHA needs 3.5%, and a conventional loan as little as 3%.