If you plan to buy your dream home, researching your mortgage options pays off. People often neglect to explore different loan options in the excitement of purchasing a new home. However, finding the best loan option is as important as choosing the right home. For a first-time home buyer, it’s fairly easy to get confused between conventional
and government-insured loan programs. Before embarking down any path, use a mortgage affordability calculator to determine what you can afford. The same can also be said about choosing the right loan term and type of interest rate. Before you get a mortgage, it’s important to consider all the loan features and terms. One of the most crucial key decisions
is deciding whether to go with a fixed- or adjustable-rate mortgage. To choose the right type of mortgage, you need to understand both these loans’ basics and each’s pros and cons. Choosing between ARM and a fixed-rate mortgage depends on your budget, housing needs, and risk appetite will be key factors in your decision. So, let’s find out the difference between these two loan types to help you pick the right one for your current needs and future goals.
Fixed-Rate Mortgages
When it comes to taking a mortgage, many home buyers gravitate toward the traditional fixed-rate mortgage. This type of loan is popular among homebuyers who prefer predictable budgeting. This loan offers stability because it locks the borrower in a fixed interest rate and monthly payments for the loan’s entire life. It means that the interest does not change throughout the loan’s life, which makes budgeting easy for homeowners.
It also comes with flexible terms, and you may opt for a 30-year mortgage or shorter periods, such as 15 or 20 years. A Fixed-Rate Mortgage is right for you if you want protection from sudden and potentially significant increases in monthly mortgage payments if interest rates rise. Also, understanding this type of mortgage is easier. However, qualifying for a fixed-rate mortgage can be tricky if interest rates are high.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage
Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is usually more appealing to first-time homebuyers because of their lower rates. Adjustable rates start low than fixed-rate mortgages but may change over time. This means the monthly payments can go up or down depending on the market condition. Although the introductory interest rates are lower, the rate moves based on its tied index. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or at the start of your career, an ARM may boost your buying power because of a lower introductory rate and flexibility.
However, your interest rate will change when this introductory period ends, and your payment may increase. The most popular adjustable-rate mortgage is the 5/1 ARM, where a lower initial rate lasts for five years and may change once a year. There are also 3/1 ARMs, 7/1 ARMs, and 10/1 ARMs. The lower rate feature allows people to buy more expensive homes than they otherwise could buy. Another advantage of an ARM is that borrowers benefit from falling rates without refinancing if the interest rate falls in the future. However, if rates increase, your payments can rise significantly over the life of the loan. It is also difficult to understand complex ARM terminology.
