What types of mortgages are available?
 

There are two categories of mortgage loans:

Government loans are FHA, VA, or an RHS loan

   Conventional loans are any non-government loan

Of these two categories, there are many classifications like fixed rate loans, adjustable rate loans or combinations of both.
 

The interest rate and mortgage payments on a Fixed rate mortgage remain the same throughout the term of the loan. They are offered for periods of 30, 25, 20, 15 and 10 years. Usually the shorter the term the lower the interest rate, but the payment will be higher.
 

Adjustable Rate Mortgages are loans that the interest rate and monthly payments are adjusted periodically, based on changes in a defined index. One such index is the Prime Rate index. 
Most ARMs have an interest rate cap to protect you from drastic increases. They should also include cap limits on how much the interest rate can be increased at a certain time, and some may cap the interest rate increase for the term of the mortgage.

Be sure to check with your lender and read any agreements.
 

There are many different types of mortgages available to you. The right mortgage will depend on how long you plan on staying in your home and the amount of the monthly payment you  are comfortable with.

For more information on the types of mortgages available, visit the Mortgage-X Information Service for ideas, then ask your lender what types of mortgages they offer.

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This information is provided as a service of Owens & Company Real Estate. It is meant for general information purposes only and is not a guarantee of approval or qualification for a loan. Check with your lender for their rules and requirements.
 

 

 

Copyright © 2002 Owens & Company Real Estate.