Financing Choices for Home Mortgage

There are several ways to finance your home. In order to choose the most appropriate home mortgage for your personality and lifestyle, assess the different type of financing for home mortgage:

1) Fixed-rate mortgage

Fixed-rate mortgage are those with interest rates that remain the same until the life of the loan ends. For consumers who are looking for a stable rate that will not experience interest rate fluctuations, this home mortgage financing is a great deal.

A favorite among first time homebuyers and retirees, it can help in organizing and budgeting finances while protecting consumers from increase of interest rates. This kind of financing for home mortgage is best for consumers who plan to stay in their homes for more than 5 to 7 years.

2) Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM)

Adjustable-rate mortgage, or simply ARM, is a kind of financing for home mortgage wherein the borrower and lender agrees on a certain interest rate that will periodically change. Interest rates will rise or fall, usually with regards to a specific index.

The advantage of an ARM is that the initial interest rate is usually lower than a fixed-rate mortgage. When the interest rate goes down, so will your payments. If you’re planning to keep a home for a short period, this mortgage financing is suitable for you.

3) Balloon Mortgage

A balloon mortgage is a loan that is amortized over longer period compared to the loan term. A balloon mortgage usually has a 15-year term, which is amortized over 30 years to make monthly payments controllable. When the 15-year term ends, you must repay the full principal due of the loan in one large sum, called the “balloon payment”.

When you plan to keep your home for a short time, this may be a practical financing plan. However, make sure to ask when the term ends to prevent possible financial problems.

4) Government loans

Through government lenders such as the Veterans Administration (VA) and the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), government loans often allows consumers with a lower down payment compared to traditional bank loans.

VA loans are perfect for veterans. Government loans are also suitable for consumers buying lower-priced homes with smaller down payments.

5) Convertible ARM (Adjustable-rate mortgage)

Convertible ARM usually starts out as an ordinary ARM, and then gives you an option to lock a fixed rate without refinancing. However, this option will only be offered after a specified time.

Knowing your financing options for home mortgage can save you money by preventing high interest rates and unworkable payment plans. Make sure to ask questions to learn which financing plan best fits your needs.