Your Mortgage Blog

Posted on
June 1, 2025
by
Neena Vlamis

When purchasing a home, especially in a market with fluctuating interest rates, buyers are always looking for ways to make their mortgage more affordable. One option that’s gaining popularity is the temporary buydown. This financing strategy can offer significant savings in the early years of a mortgage—when every dollar counts.

In this article, we’ll break down what a temporary buydown is, how it works, and when it might be the right fit for your home financing plan.

What Is a Temporary Buydown?

A temporary buydown is a mortgage financing tool that allows a borrower to pay a lower interest rate for the first one to three years of the loan. After this period, the interest rate “steps up” to the full rate for the remainder of the mortgage term.

Buydowns are often negotiated between buyers and sellers, and in many cases, sellers may offer to fund the buydown as an incentive to close the deal.

Common Types of Temporary Buydowns

1. 2-1 Buydown

  • Year 1: Interest rate is reduced by 2%
  • Year 2: Interest rate is reduced by 1%
  • Year 3 and onward: Standard interest rate applies

2. 3-2-1 Buydown

  • Year 1: Interest rate is reduced by 3%
  • Year 2: Reduced by 2%
  • Year 3: Reduced by 1%
  • Year 4 and onward: Standard interest rate applies

3. 1-0 Buydown

  • Year 1: Interest rate is reduced by 1%
  • Year 2 and beyond: Standard rate resumes

How Do Temporary Buydowns Work?

With a temporary buydown, the difference in interest payments during the buydown period is typically paid upfront by the seller, builder, or even the lender in some cases. These funds are held in a buydown escrow account and used to supplement the borrower’s monthly payments.

The borrower benefits from lower monthly payments early on, which can help with affordability during the transition into homeownership.

Pros of a Temporary Buydown

  • Lower initial monthly payments: Easier budgeting in the early years
  • More purchasing power: Can afford more home for the same monthly budget
  • Seller-paid option: Often used as a seller concession
  • Ideal for expected income increases: Great for buyers expecting higher income in the future

Cons to Consider

  • Payments increase over time: Borrowers must be financially prepared for the jump
  • May not be worth it long-term: Especially if you plan to refinance or move soon
  • Upfront cost: The buydown must be funded, often by the seller or builder

Is a Temporary Buydown Right for You?

Temporary buydowns are best suited for:

  • Buyers who need short-term payment relief
  • Borrowers expecting a future raise or increased income
  • Sellers looking to sweeten the deal without lowering the price
  • Buyers in a high-rate environment planning to refinance later

However, they may not be ideal for buyers planning to hold the mortgage for the long term without refinancing.

Final Thoughts

Temporary buydowns can be a strategic way to ease into your mortgage with reduced payments early on. With the right circumstances and proper planning, it’s a tool that can provide both affordability and flexibility in today’s market.

Before choosing this option, consult with a knowledgeable loan officer who can run the numbers and ensure it aligns with your goals.

Looking for more mortgage strategies to help you save? Contact A and N Mortgage today to explore your options and find the right fit for your financial future.

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