Short answer: Extra $100/month on $500k at 7% saves ~$52,000 and cuts 3 years. Early payments save the most.
Every extra dollar you pay early saves many dollars later because interest compounds. An extra $100 per month on a $500,000 loan at 7% saves about $52,000 and pays off the loan 3 years early. Pay lump sums when you get bonuses. The earlier you make extra payments, the more they save.
Loan Amount: $500,000
Rate: 7.0%
Term: 30 years
Extra Per Month: $100
Interest Saved: $52,000
Term Reduced: 3 years
New Payoff Date: 27 years