Deciding on an Adjustable Rate Mortgage

By Cory E. Walljasper

Our parents may have had the same mortgage (and the same home) for 25 years, but times have changed drastically, and most mortgages now are no longer fixed rate, long term, but rather ARMs (Adjustable Rate Mortgages) this is by far better.

Today, ARMs are based on different indices, and you can choose the right index to tailor your loan to your specific needs.

The idea behind an index ARM is that the interest rate can change more or less quickly, depending on the index used, and according to how the borrower believes rates will change. If you use an ARM that adjusts quickly with changing rates, you can lock in lower rates as they fall. If you choose a lagging rate ARM, you still have time once rates have started to move up. The most average indexed ARMs are:

The six month CD ARM- The underlying index reacts quickly to overall rate changes, since the CD market is very changeable and flexible.

The twelve month spot ARM- This rate will change only 2% every twelve months. This will react more slowly than the CD ARM.

The six month Treasury Average ARM- Changes every six months, but on the less volatile treasury market, so it responds more slowly in fluctuating markets.

The twelve Month Treasury Average ARM- Reacts slowly to market moves, slower even than the six month Treasury Average ARM, since it changes every twelve months.

You must undertstand the basic differences of mortgages before you get adjustable rate mortgage or fixed rates if not you could be falling in a big mistake.

If you are looking to obtain the annual percentage rate of your ARMs, you should better inform about rates and the best place to obtain them.

You don't always have to accumulate points for a better adjustable rate mortgage, there are a few pages that can help you out by calculating your points automatically and in the best of all is that really fast.

The net is the best choice in our days to look for the best ARMs from the comfort of your house, you hear about better quotes for adjustable rate mortgages on the Internet than with your lender.

You need to calculate what type of mortgage is better for you, it is an important choice so make sure you understand all the points. - 29971

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