A financial tool designed to estimate periodic payments on a loan, structured with a final, lump-sum payment due at the end of the loan term, is an essential resource for borrowers. This structure contrasts with traditional amortization, where the loan balance is fully repaid over the loan term. For instance, consider a loan of $100,000 with a 5-year term at 6% interest, featuring a balloon payment due at the end of the term. This tool assists in calculating the regular payments based on this structure.
This method allows for lower regular payments during the loan term, which can be beneficial for managing cash flow. Historically, it has been used in commercial real estate and auto financing, particularly when borrowers anticipate refinancing or selling the asset before the loan term ends. However, it’s crucial to recognize the risk associated with securing funds for the large final payment, which could result in default if not properly planned.
