What happens when a borrower buys down their interest rate?

When a borrower buys down their interest rate, they pay an upfront fee, often referred to as "points," to lower the rate on their mortgage. This process is strategic as it enables borrowers to secure a more favorable interest rate, which can lead to lower monthly payments over the loan's term. Paying this upfront fee is essentially a way to "purchase" a lower rate, which can be beneficial for the borrower's long-term financial planning, especially if they plan to stay in the home for an extended period.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the effects of buying down an interest rate. For instance, while the borrower's monthly payment will decrease due to the lower interest rate, it is not the case that the total loan amount increases or that the lender pays the borrower directly as part of this process. These nuances are critical to understanding mortgage financing and borrower strategies in achieving better terms on their loans.