FAQS
SHOULD I GET A FIXED RATE OR ADJUSTABLE RATE LOAN?
Fixed-Rate Mortgages
A fixed-rate mortgage charges a set rate of interest that remains unchanged throughout the life of the loan. Although the amount of principal and interest paid each month varies from payment to payment, the total payment remains the same, which makes budgeting easy for homeowners.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARM)
The interest rate for an adjustable-rate mortgage is a variable one. The initial interest rate on an ARM is set below the market rate on a comparable fixed-rate loan, and then the rate rises as time goes on. If the ARM is held long enough, the interest rate will surpass the going rate for fixed-rate loans
WHEN SHOULD I REFINANCE?
Refinancing can lower your monthly mortgage payment by reducing your interest rate or increasing your loan term. Refinancing also can lower your long-run interest costs through a lower mortgage rate, shorter loan term or both. It also can help you get rid of mortgage insurance.