What is the difference between total return and capital gain?

Capital Gain is the profit from the rise in the stock’s price. Total Return is the capital gain plus any dividends received. This calculator provides a result closer to your capital gain, as it excludes dividends.

Why are commissions and fees important?

Trading fees, even small ones, reduce your profits. Factoring them in gives you a more accurate understanding of your investment’s true performance.

This calculator does not account for capital gains taxes or dividend taxes, which can significantly impact your net return. Tax laws vary, so it’s a good idea to consult with a tax professional.

Nov

17

2025

Only 40% of Jobs Pass This New Test

By Lindsay VanSomeren | | Comments Off

This article appeared in SoFi's On the Money newsletter. Not getting it? Sign up here.

Most of us know why we don’t like a job.

But how would you define a quality job? The size of the paycheck is no doubt a big part of it, but how else do you measure how good it is?

It’s a worthwhile question. If pay is only one piece, how much weight should you give things like career mobility, workplace culture, or workload?

A new Gallup study found that only 40% of Americans have what it defines as “quality” jobs. The study surveyed over 18,000 U.S. workers, scoring their jobs based on established minimum thresholds for not just fair pay and benefits, but also opportunities for advancement, sustainable schedules, and a voice in decisions.

“Quality jobs are still the exception in the U.S. workforce,” the researchers wrote when they released the findings last month. “Our experiences on the job shape the decisions we make, the companies we trust and how we show up each day — at work and at home. And yet, too often, conversations about the economy focus on job quantity, not quality.”

Roughly half of workers in professional services, finance, and wholesale met Gallup’s quality standard compared with less than 30% in leisure and hospitality, retail, and warehousing.

So what?

At the end of the day, you want a job that helps you thrive. But many employers still fall short in providing livable wages, opportunities for advancement, and a healthy work-life balance.

When the economy is unpredictable, many people understandably hold on to unsatisfying jobs. But that shouldn’t stop you from identifying what you want from your job — and strategizing how to make it happen, whether it’s now or in the future.

Here are some highlights from the study to help you assess:

Gallup, in partnership with the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research and other researchers, defines a quality job first and foremost by fair pay. For full-timers, that means earnings of at least three times the federal poverty level for a two-person family, currently $5,287 per month. (Though the researchers acknowledged that this isn’t always enough, depending on someone’s location or other circumstances.) Yet half of respondents fell short.

To qualify, a job also had to score well in at least two of four quality-of-life areas: a healthy working environment, providing opportunities for advancement, getting a say in workplace decisions, and having a sustainable schedule. Gallup found that:

• 62% lacked a predictable schedule they could control.

• 54% worked extra or unplanned hours sometimes or often.

• 25% reported no opportunities for promotion or advancement.

• 24% experienced discrimination or unfair treatment at work.

• 69% said they/their co-workers didn’t have enough influence over pay and benefits.

• 55% said they/their co-workers didn’t have enough say over the use of new technology like AI.

Taken together, the findings show that job satisfaction involves more than just a paycheck — and that, for most Americans, stability and autonomy at work remain out of reach.

5 Ways to Carve Out Turkey Day Savings

By Ben Kesslen | | Comments Off

If you’re worried about the cost of Thanksgiving dinner, some good news: Even though groceries like beef and coffee continue to soar in price, most Turkey Day staples aren’t likely to give us sticker shock this year.

In fact, despite tariffs and inflation, estimated retail prices for national turkey brands are down 3.7% from last year, according to Wells Fargo analysts, and the cost of foods like butter, ham, and frozen vegetables have leveled off.

Even so, with the average Thanksgiving meal expected to run $137 this year, 42% of Americans surveyed by Empower said they’ll host a scaled-back holiday feast to save money. So for anyone trying to economize, here are five pain-free ways to keep your costs down.

1. Dish out a new tradition. Whether it’s a family dinner or a Friendsgiving, try something new. Suggest a potluck competition where everyone has to make a favorite dish for under $5. You can theme it like a White Elephant price-capped gift game, except with food (could even call it White Turkey).

And try getting inventive with your menu. Consider swapping bottles of wine and liquor for a big batch of just one seasonal cocktail (or mocktail). If your grandma always used heavy cream in one dish, chances are nobody will notice if you swap it for more affordable evaporated milk. Sub frozen veggies for fresh even if the recipes tell you otherwise. Not only will small switches trim costs, but they can shake things up, too.

2. Shelve some sides. Focus your spending on the main event (turkey or perhaps ham, gravy, etc.) and be judicious with your side dish choices. The average Thanksgiving meal will have seven sides, according to one recent survey. But you can probably still feel indulgent with fewer.

Food waste is expensive, so think about which sides people love and which typically get snubbed (we’re looking at you, green bean casserole). Prioritize sides that your household likes and that reheat well, like mac n’ cheese, so that you can make meals from them after Thanksgiving — and aren’t stuck with leftovers nobody wants.

3. Make ‘em wait (mostly.) While you’re prioritizing, consider how many snacks and appetizers you really need to offer ahead of the big meal. Could you keep your pre-feast menu to just a single veggie tray or some nice cheese? There’s a reason that turkey and a few standout sides are the star — no need for your guests to fill up on chips and charcuterie.

4. Set a number. Look, it sounds obvious, but setting a spending limit will keep you in check. Research shows that optimistic budgets help people cut spending, even if they can’t entirely meet their ambitiously thrifty goals. When you’re at the supermarket, don’t forget to:

◦ Look for online coupons

◦ Consider generic instead of name brands. In a test between store brand and name-brand products, Consumer Reports found 76% of generic brands tasted just as good as their brand-name counterparts, and cost up to 72% less per serving.

5. Borrow, don’t buy. If you’re short on cooking tools, silverware, or extra chairs you’ll need for your guests, crowdsource from family and friends before you purchase something. Or check Facebook Marketplace for people giving away foldable tables and old furniture. There might even be a nearby tool and appliance library you can tap. No need to make a big purchase just to use it once a year.

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

OTM2025111701

New Mexico Jumbo Mortgage Loan Calculator

By Dana Paltao | mortgage | Comments Off

New Mexico Jumbo Loan Calculator

By SoFi Editors | Updated October 29, 2025

The world of home loans can be complex, and jumbo loans add an extra layer of lingo and special requirements. This guide aims to help homebuyers understand jumbo loan limits in New Mexico, how jumbo mortgages differ from conforming loans, and how to effectively use a jumbo loan calculator to make informed financial decisions.

Key Points

• Jumbo loans are required for large amounts that exceed the conforming loan limit, which is $832,750 throughout New Mexico.

• A significant down payment (at least 10%) and substantial cash reserves are often necessary to qualify.

• A jumbo loan calculator helps borrowers assess affordability and explore different loan programs and scenarios.

• This jumbo mortgage calculator includes property tax, but not homeowners insurance or HOA fees.

New Mexico Jumbo Loan Calculator

Calculator Definitions

• Jumbo loan: A jumbo loan is a mortgage exceeding the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). In most New Mexico counties in 2026, the limit is $832,750 for a single-family home.

• Home price: The home price is the agreed-upon purchase price between the buyer and seller. It may differ from the initial listing price and your offer.

• Down payment: The down payment is the initial amount contributed upfront when purchasing a property, often expressed as a percentage of the home price. Jumbo mortgage loans typically require a minimum of 10% down.

• Loan term: The loan term is the duration to repay the mortgage, typically 30 or 15 years, though 10 or 20 years are also available. A longer term lowers monthly payments but increases total interest paid. A shorter term reduces interest but raises monthly payments.

• Interest rate: The interest rate is the cost of borrowing, expressed as a percentage of the loan amount.

• Annual property tax: Annual property tax is levied by local governments on land and buildings. It is typically a percentage of the property’s assessed value.

How to Use the New Mexico Jumbo Loan Calculator

Here’s how to use the New Mexico jumbo loan calculator effectively:

Step 1: Enter Your Home Price

Enter the home price listed on your contract.

Step 2: Enter Your Down Payment Amount

Specify how much you will pay for a down payment. A jumbo loan requires at least 10% of the home price upfront.

Step 3: Select a Loan Term

Choose a loan term between 10 and 30 years.

Step 4: Enter Your Interest Rate

Input your hoped-for interest rate to the second or third decimal point.

Step 5: Enter Your Property Tax Rate

Enter your annual property tax rate as a percentage. New Mexico’s average effective rate is 0.74%. The state has some of the lowest property taxes in the U.S.

What Are Jumbo Loans and Conforming Loan Limits?

What is a jumbo loan? In short, it’s a mortgage that exceeds the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Throughout New Mexico in 2026, the conforming loan limit for a single-family home is $832,750. For loan amounts above this, a jumbo loan is necessary.

When comparing jumbo loans vs. conventional loans, jumbo loans often have stricter qualification criteria. Borrowers generally need a higher credit score (700+) and significant cash reserves to qualify. Lenders also typically require a down payment of 10%, though some look for 20%. Fortunately, private mortgage insurance is typically not required for down payments less than 20%.

Recommended: The Pros and Cons of Jumbo Loans

Benefits of Using a Jumbo Loan Payment Calculator

Using a jumbo loan calculator offers several benefits. It helps you budget by providing a clear estimate of monthly payments, including principal, interest, and property tax. This tool also shows how changes in interest rates can affect your payments, allowing you to plan for different scenarios. Additionally, you can compare offers from multiple lenders to find the best terms. Especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer, online calculators are invaluable for making informed decisions about jumbo mortgages.

How to Use the Jumbo Loan Calculator to Compare Scenarios

Comparing different loan scenarios can help you determine a comfortable budget that balances down payment, monthly payments, and the overall cost of the loan.

• Adjust the home price to see how it affects affordability. Remember that you may qualify for a higher loan amount than you can comfortably afford.

• Consider a larger down payment to reduce your overall interest costs.

• Explore shorter loan terms to save on interest, although that will mean higher monthly payments.

• Test different interest rates to explore the implications of an adjustable-rate loan..

• Use the calculator to assess the impact of small rate changes on jumbo loans.

Current mortgage rates by state.

Compare current home interest rates by state and find a mortgage rate that suits your financial goals.

Select a state to view current rates:

Deciding How Much House You Can Afford in New Mexico

There are different ways to determine what you can comfortably afford. One rule of thumb suggests that housing costs do not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Let’s say you’re looking at a $1 million home in New Mexico. Given a 10% down payment ($100,000) on a 30-year mortgage at 6.75% interest, your monthly payment would be approximately $5,837, excluding taxes and insurance. This payment would require an annual income of around $250,000, assuming you have minimal debt.

If your debts exceed about $1,600 a month — think about student loans, credit cards, and car payments — the income needed for a $900,000 mortgage would be higher. That’s because lenders recommend keeping your debt payments within 36% of your gross monthly income.

Of course, your down payment and interest rate can significantly impact affordability. The lower your interest rate, the more home you can afford. The same goes if you can offer a larger down payment; a 20% down payment would bring the monthly mortgage bill down to $5,189.

Going through the mortgage preapproval process can help you gauge affordability — though only you can say what a comfortable budget is, based on your assets, lifestyle, and financial goals.

Recommended: Jumbo Loan Requirements

Components of a Jumbo Loan Payment

Across different types of mortgage loans, the core elements of any mortgage payment remain the same: the principal and interest. Our jumbo loan calculator also factors in annual property tax, which may be included in your monthly payment. Other financial obligations that may be rolled into your mortgage bill are homeowners insurance and homeowners association (HOA) dues. Understanding these components helps you get a more accurate picture of your total commitment, ensuring you are well-prepared for the financial responsibilities of homeownership.

Run the numbers on your home loan.

Mortgage calculator

Punch in your home loan amount and a new interest rate, and we’ll estimate your payoff date.

Calculate
Down payment calculator

Enter a few details about your home loan and we’ll provide your monthly mortgage payment.

Calculate
Home affordability calculator

Provide us with a few details and see how much you can afford to spend on a home purchase.

Calculate

Using the free calculators is for informational purposes only, does not constitute an offer to receive a loan, and will not solicit a loan offer. Any payments shown depend on the accuracy of the information provided.

Cost of Living in New Mexico

The cost of living in your area will significantly affect how much you can afford to spend on a home. Higher cost of living areas typically have higher average home prices, but they also come with increased costs for utilities, home maintenance, transportation, and other necessities. While you might think you can handle a higher mortgage payment, other expenses can also contribute to financial strain.

Fortunately, the cost of living index in New Mexico is 93.7, or about 6% lower than the national average. Housing costs are almost 12% lower than the national average, and utilities are 16.5% lower. This is great news for homebuyers who may already be stretching themselves to meet a jumbo mortgage payment each month.

Tips on Reducing Your Jumbo Loan Payment

If you’re looking to shave down your monthly payment, here are some common tactics homebuyers employ:

• Shop around for less expensive homeowners insurance, opt for a higher deductible, or combine policies to secure a discount.

• Consider an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) for a lower initial interest rate.

• Extend the term of your loan to reduce monthly payments, though this increases the total interest you’ll pay.

• If you face financial hardship in the future, talk to your lender about a loan modification.

• If interest rates drop, consider a mortgage refinance; just remember that to refinance a jumbo loan requires that you pay closing costs again.

The Takeaway

When considering a jumbo mortgage loan, it’s important to use a jumbo loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments and total costs. This tool can really help you understand the financial implications of different down payment amounts, various interest rates, and loan term options. By exploring these tools, you can make more informed decisions and find the best mortgage for your needs and circumstances.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

View your rate

FAQ

How much is a jumbo loan in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, a jumbo loan is defined as a mortgage exceeding the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency. For 2026, the limit for a single-family home is $832,750. Any mortgage over that amount requires a jumbo loan.

How much is a $900,000 mortgage payment for 30 years?

Assuming a 7.00% interest rate, the estimated monthly payment would be approximately $5,988, including principal and interest, but not property taxes and insurance. A jumbo loan calculator can help you gauge affordability for your own loan terms.

Is $900,000 a jumbo loan?

Yes, a $900,000 mortgage is generally considered a jumbo loan in most areas of the U.S. The conforming loan limit for a single-family home in 2026 is $832,750. In high-cost areas, however, this limit can be higher — up to $1,249,125 for a single unit.

Do you need 20% for a jumbo loan?

While some lenders look for a 20% down payment for a jumbo loan, it is not always required. Some lenders accept a down payment as low as 10%.

What are the benefits of a jumbo loan?

Jumbo loans offer higher loan limits, making them suitable for high-value properties in competitive markets. They can provide competitive interest rates and flexible underwriting options. And self-employed individuals benefit from alternative documentation methods.

How much are closing costs on a jumbo loan?

Closing costs for a jumbo loan typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. For a $900,000 home, closing costs could be between $18,000 and $45,000. That covers the cost of appraisals, title searches, loan origination fees, attorney fees, and more. Your lender will provide you with an itemized list before your closing.

What credit score is needed for a jumbo loan?

A credit score of 700 or above is generally required for a jumbo loan (620 for a conventional conforming mortgage), though some lenders look for 720. Jumbo loans have stricter criteria, including a low debt-to-income ratio and significant cash reserves. To improve your credit score and increase your chances of approval, try to pay down any debts, especially credit card debt and higher-interest loans.

How to get the best rate on a jumbo loan?

To secure the best rate on a jumbo loan, shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders. Improve your credit score, maintain a low debt-to-income ratio, and provide significant cash reserves.

What is the jumbo loan limit?

The jumbo loan limit — technically called the conforming loan limit — is the threshold that determines when a mortgage exceeds the limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). In most areas, the limit for a single-family home is $832,750. In high-cost areas, it can be as high as $1,249,125. If you need a loan amount above these limits, you will require a jumbo loan.

Learn more about jumbo loans:

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

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New Hampshire Jumbo Mortgage Loan Calculator

By Dana Paltao | mortgage | Comments Off

New Hampshire Jumbo Loan Calculator

By SoFi Editors | Updated Novmeber 7, 2025

When considering a jumbo loan in New Hampshire, understanding the financial implications is important. A jumbo loan calculator can help you estimate monthly payments, calculate the total interest paid, and show total loan costs associated with financing a high-value property.

Simply enter in the purchase price, down payment amount, loan term, interest rate, and property tax rate. Keep reading to learn more on jumbo loans in New Hampshire and how to best use the calculator.

Key Points

• A jumbo loan is a mortgage option for loan amounts exceeding the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency.

• In New Hampshire, the conforming loan limit is $832,750 in most counties. In Rockingham and Strafford, it’s $914,250.

• A jumbo loan calculator helps estimate monthly payments, total interest, and other associated costs.

• Key factors include home price, down payment size, loan term, interest rate, and property tax rate.

• Qualifying for a jumbo loan often requires a higher credit score, significant cash reserves, and a down payment of at least 10%.

New Hampshire Jumbo Loan Calculator

Calculator Definitions

• Jumbo loan: A jumbo loan is a mortgage for amounts exceeding the conforming loan limit, which is set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). In most New Hampshire counties in 2026, the limit is $832,750, but it increases to $914,250 in Rockingham and Strafford counties.

• Home price: The home price is the agreed-upon purchase price between the buyer and seller. It is crucial for determining the size of your home loan and the overall affordability of the property.

• Down payment: The down payment is the initial sum a homebuyer contributes upfront, typically a percentage of the home’s purchase price. Jumbo mortgage loans generally require a down payment of at least 10%.

• Loan term: The loan term is the duration over which you repay the mortgage, typically 15 or 30 years. A longer term lowers monthly payments but increases total interest paid. A shorter term raises monthly payments but reduces total interest.

• Interest rate: The interest rate is the cost of borrowing, expressed as a percentage of the loan amount. It can be fixed or variable. Factors influencing the rate include credit history, market trends, and the type of mortgage loan.

• Annual property tax: Property tax is levied by local governments on land and buildings, typically a percentage of the assessed property value. In New Hampshire, the average effective property tax rate on owner-occupied housing is 1.89%.