What Is An Adjustable-Rate Mortgage?
A variable-rate mortgage, commonly referred to as an ARM, can offer homeowners flexible options when it comes to financing their home.
Unlike a fixed-rate loan, where you pay the same monthly payment each month over the course of the loan’s duration, an ARM’s interest rate can vary depending on market conditions.
This might allow you to make lower payments in the short run, but could potentially lead to bigger bills should the market fluctuate.
Ultimately, it’s important to weigh your options and think about what will work best for you and your family.
How Does An Adjustable-Rate Mortgage Work?
An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) in Fort Worth is a great option for many homebuyers who are looking to benefit from a lower initial interest rate than a fixed-rate loan.
However, having the risk of fluctuating rates and increased monthly payments can be concerning.
Thankfully, lenders often put a cap on how much the interest rate can increase during each adjustment period and over the life of the loan to protect buyers from this risk. Plus, borrowers have the added bonus of being able to switch their ARM to a fixed-rate loan after a few years.
Types of ARMs in Fort Worth, TX
- Fixed-to-Adjustable Rate Mortgages: Start off with a fixed rate for a certain period of time, then switch to an adjustable rate.
- Graduated Payment Mortgages: Payments start low and increase over time, but never by more than a set amount and never higher than the rate cap.
- Growing Equity Mortgages: Monthly payments remain the same, but your equity grows as you pay down more of the loan each month.
- Step Rate Mortgages: Have adjustments every year, but never more than a set amount and usually below the adjust cap.
- Five-Year ARM: These are fixed-rate mortgages that switch to an adjustable rate after five years.
- Hybrid ARM: Has both fixed and adjustable terms in one mortgage, such as a 5/1 ARM (a fixed rate lasting five years).
- Reverse Annuity Mortgage: An adjustable-rate mortgage designed specifically for seniors, allowing them to use their home equity to supplement income during retirement.
Pros and Cons of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage
Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) in Fort Worth have both benefits and drawbacks. The most obvious advantage of ARMs is their low cost.
Because interest rates change, you may be able to acquire a cheaper interest rate than with a fixed-rate mortgage. This means you could save money on your monthly bills.
However, if the interest rate rises, so will your payments – by as much as 10% or more in some situations.
Furthermore, if you do not intend to stay in your home for an extended period of time, an ARM may not make sense because you will not have time to recoup any potential rate increases. Before signing any contract, you should thoroughly assess your financial status
ARM Mortgage FAQs
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Adjustable Rate Mortgages?
When you choose an adjustable rate mortgage in Fort Worth, there is a promising opportunity to procure a lower interest rate; however, this also comes with the risk of the payments rising if market interest rates spike. This should be done with careful consideration.
Is An ARM A Good Idea?
If there is a chance of your life altering in the near future – for example, if you are considering relocating or listing the property – an adjustable-rate mortgage in Fort Worth can be a wise decision. You will have the advantage of the fixed-rate period, allowing you to sell prior to reaching its conclusion and when the variable element takes over.
What Happens At The End Of An ARM Mortgage?
Having reached the end of an ARM mortgage in Fort Worth, you will have fully paid off your loan and thereby own your home without any remainder.
Team LoanStar360
- Canopy Mortgage, LLC
- Serving all of Fort Worth, TX
- 888-670-7550
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