About Gradient

Most financial calculators on the web give you a single number without explaining how they got there. Gradient takes the opposite approach. Every calculation shows its work: the formulas used, the assumptions made, and the step-by-step math that produces the result. We believe that understanding how a number is derived is just as important as the number itself, especially when that number influences a major life decision like buying a home or planning for retirement.

Financial literacy should not require a finance degree. Gradient aims to be the tool you reach for when you want clear, honest answers to questions like “How much house can I afford?”, “Is this rental property a good deal?”, or “Will my savings last through retirement?”

Gradient's calculation engines are pure mathematical functions with zero external dependencies. Each engine takes a set of inputs, validates them against a strict schema, and produces deterministic output. The engines are covered by automated tests that verify correctness against known financial scenarios.

Where applicable, calculators pull live data from authoritative sources:

• Mortgage rates are sourced from the Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) API, specifically the Primary Mortgage Market Survey published weekly by Freddie Mac.
• Property tax rates are based on median effective rates by state, derived from U.S. Census Bureau and Tax Foundation data.
• Inflation assumptions default to the Federal Reserve’s long-run target of 2% per year, which can be adjusted by the user.

All default values are clearly labeled and can be overridden. The assumptions hash displayed in the math panel lets you verify that two scenarios use identical underlying parameters.

Gradient's calculators are educational tools, not financial advice. While we strive for accuracy, the results are estimates based on simplified models that may not capture every cost or variable in your specific situation. Real-world outcomes depend on factors like local tax law changes, lender-specific pricing, maintenance costs, and market fluctuations that no calculator can perfectly predict.

We recommend using Gradient's output as a starting point for conversations with qualified financial professionals, not as a substitute for personalized advice.