If you've applied for a mortgage before, you likely heard the lender reference rates and points. While most people are familiar with rates (the percentage of interest that must be paid on the loan annually), fewer borrowers understand how points affect their mortgage. With rates as they are now at a higher levels you may be able to use mortgage points to your benefit. While they aren't for everyone you will want to find out if they are something that can help. Keep reading for a quick primer covering the basics of mortgage points and how they can benefit you!