Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime. Before you start looking for your dream home, it’s important to understand the different types of home loans available and which one best suits your needs. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of home loans.
Fixed-Rate Mortgage (FRM)
A fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) is about as straightforward as it gets. With this type of loan, you agree to repay the loan over a certain period at an interest rate that doesn’t change during the life of the loan. Home buyers who prefer predictability and stability will often opt for an FRM because they know exactly what their monthly payments will be. It also makes budgeting easier since there are no surprises when it comes to payments or interest rates.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)
An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) differs from an FRM in that its interest rate can change over time, typically with changes in market conditions or economic indicators like inflation or unemployment rates. ARMs come with lower initial rates than FRMs but could result in higher payments down the line if rates go up significantly. Because ARMs come with more risk than FRMs, they tend to appeal more to investors and people who might not stay in one place for too long—they may end up selling before they have to start making higher payments on their mortgage.
VA Loan
A VA loan is guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs and only available to eligible veterans, service members, and eligible surviving spouses. Some advantages include low costs and no down payment requirements; however, there are limits on how much you can borrow, so be sure to check those out before applying for a VA loan! Another thing to note about VA Loans is that they do require mortgage insurance premiums (PMI). The good news, though, is that PMI on VA loans are usually much lower than PMI on conventional mortgages, so it may still be worth considering even with this added cost.
Navigating all the different types of home loans can feel overwhelming, but understanding these basics can help you determine which type best suits your needs. Whether it’s a fixed-rate mortgage, adjustable-rate mortgage, or VA Loan—understanding each option can help you decide which one works best for you before you start shopping around for homes! Always remember to factor in all costs associated with each loan type when deciding which one fits best into your budget and lifestyle. Good luck!
Need more help understanding loans? Take a deeper dive here: https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/what-is-a-mortgage