What’s Really in Your Mortgage Payment?

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Buying a home in the Black Hills is thrilling, but understanding your mortgage payment can sometimes feel confusing. Many people assume it’s just the loan principal and interest, but there’s more to the story. Knowing what’s included helps you budget confidently and avoid surprises.

Breaking It Down:

  1. Principal – This is the portion of your payment that actually reduces the amount you borrowed.
  2. Interest – The cost of borrowing money from your lender. Interest rates can make a big difference, so shopping smart matters.
  3. Taxes – Property taxes in the Black Hills go toward schools, roads, and community services. They’re usually included in your monthly payment.
  4. Insurance – Homeowners insurance protects your investment in case of damage or unexpected events. Some lenders also include mortgage insurance if your down payment is low.
  5. HOA or Other Fees – If your home is in a neighborhood with a homeowners association, monthly dues may be added to your payment.


Understanding all the pieces of your mortgage payment means fewer surprises and more peace of mind. If you’re ready to explore your options here in the Black Hills, I’d be happy to walk you through exactly what your payment could look like—and help you plan for it.

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Joshua K.

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“Been a loyal member for years! Keep your account positive and make your payments. If life happens keep them updated, as they have ways of working with you. I am glad they are a part of my financial family.”

Chris P

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“If you’re in the Rapid City area and you’re looking to drop the elbow off the top rope, Macho Man style, then look to Sentinel Federal Credit Union! Their customer service is off the hook and when you call you never get a robot or an automated answering machine! I don’t think I’ll trust another big bank with my money for as long as I live! By the way, I don’t even live in South Dakota!”

Joe M

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“We have several credit unions that got lost in the mix during a move–our bad. However, out of all of those credit unions, SFCU went OUT OF THEIR WAY to ensure we knew our account was dormant and helped us through the process of getting the account back on track. They also refunded every fee taken for dormant status. After losing more money than I’d like to admit from other institutions, I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the customer service of Sentinel FCU.”

Bret R

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“I have been using Sentinel for almost 30 years, and my family has been just as long! I purposely make the extra drive to the Radar Hill Branch with Nate working there! Not only has he always been on the ball of my personal account, but my business account! He has resolved issues with other banks in a timely manner when he didn’t have to! Every time I go on he always has a smiling face and is easy to work with.”