Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the complexities and potential downsides of early mortgage repayment, suggesting that it may not always be a financially sound decision despite the initial perception of saving on interest payments [1][3][21]. Group 1: Mortgage Rate Changes - The decline in mortgage rates has led to dissatisfaction among early homebuyers who secured loans at higher rates, with the first mortgage rate dropping to around 4.8% and second mortgage rates at 5.4% by 2024 [4]. - Many early borrowers feel they are being unfairly treated as new buyers benefit from lower rates, leading to a sense of being "cut down" [4]. Group 2: Financial Considerations of Early Repayment - Early repayment may seem beneficial for saving on interest, but factors such as prepayment penalties (typically 1% to 5%) and opportunity costs must be considered [6][8]. - For instance, if a borrower repays a loan of 800,000 yuan early, they might incur a penalty of 16,000 yuan if the penalty rate is 2% [6]. Group 3: Market Conditions and Investment Opportunities - The current low yield environment in the financial market, with bank products yielding around 3%, makes early mortgage repayment appear as a stable, low-risk option [14]. - However, locking funds into early repayment may prevent participation in potentially higher-return investments in the future [16]. Group 4: Real Estate Market Dynamics - The ongoing decline in property prices since 2022 has created pressure for homeowners, making early repayment seem like a way to alleviate financial stress [18]. - If homeowners plan to hold onto their properties long-term, short-term price fluctuations may be less significant, but those considering selling may face increased losses if property values continue to drop [18]. Group 5: Inflation Considerations - High inflation rates can make long-term fixed-rate loans a hedge against inflation, as the real value of the loan decreases over time [20].