Andrew Vaughey, Fixed Rate Mortgage Loans - Understand the Pros and Cons of the Fixed Rate Mortgag
There are many benefits and drawbacks to consider when deciding if a
fixed rate mortgage is right for you. It is important to look at all
options when it comes to something as important as getting a mortgage
for your new home.
There are a few benefits to fixed rate
mortgages. One benefit is that the rates and payments remain constant.
There won't be any surprises even if inflation surges out of control
and mortgage rates head to 20%. This kind of stability makes budgeting
easier. People can manage their money with more certainty because their
housing expenses won't change. Fixed rate mortgages are simple to
understand making them appealing and good for first time buyers. Also
longer term fixed rate mortgages are very affordable.
There are
also a few drawbacks to fixed rate mortgages. To take advantage of
falling rates, mortgage holders would have to refinance. That can mean
a few thousand dollars in closing costs, another trip to the title
company's office and several hours spent digging up tax forms, bank
statements etc. Fixed rate mortgages can be too expensive for some
borrowers, especially in high rate environments, because there is no
early on payment and rate break like there is with adjustable rate
mortgages. Fixed rate mortgages are practically identical from lender
to lender. While lenders keep many adjustable rate mortgages on their
books, most financial institutions sell their fixed rate mortgages.
There
are a few other important questions you should make sure you have
answers to when deciding which type of mortgage is better for you. How
long do you plan on staying in the home? How frequently does the
adjustable rate mortgage adjust, and when is the adjustment made?
What's the interest rate environment like? Could you still afford your
monthly payment if interest rates rise significantly? Do you know the
main pros and cons for each type of loan?
Generally, fixed-rate
mortgages are a safer way for first time home buyers to get a mortgage.
There is greater stability and less risk involved. It is easy to budget
and regulate your expenses when you know exactly what your interest
rate will be.
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