Why choose an ARM loan?
When you start exploring home financing, you’ll often hear about two main types of mortgage loans: fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs). While a fixed-rate mortgage locks in your interest rate for the life of the loan, an ARM offers an interest rate that adjusts over time.
ARMs products offer solutions for dynamic rate environments. With lower initial interest rates compared to fixed-rate loans, ARMs provide affordability and flexibility.
At GMFS Mortgage, we know that choosing the right loan is about finding the best fit for your unique goals. Here’s why an ARM loan might be the smart choice for you.
Lower initial rates mean lower payments
One of the biggest advantages of an ARM is the lower introductory interest rate, typically fixed for the first 3, 5, 7, or even 10 years. During this initial period, your monthly payments are often significantly less than they would be with a traditional fixed-rate mortgage. That means you can save money upfront, which is especially helpful if you plan to use those savings for renovations, investments, or simply building your emergency fund.
Ideal if you don’t plan to stay long-term
ARMs are a great option if you know you’ll be in your home for a shorter period of time. Maybe you’re buying a starter home, planning to move for work, or expect to upgrade in a few years. By the time your interest rate adjusts, you may have already sold your home or refinanced into a new loan—allowing you to maximize the benefits of those early lower payments.
Potential to pay less over time
Because of the initial lower rate, many borrowers pay less interest during the early years of an ARM than they would with a fixed-rate mortgage. If you use this period to make extra principal payments, you could reduce your balance faster and lessen the impact of future rate adjustments.
Flexibility to refinance
If interest rates drop or your situation changes, you can explore refinancing into a new fixed-rate or ARM loan. Many homeowners use ARMs strategically, taking advantage of the initial savings with plans to refinance later.
Wondering if ARMs are the right choice for you? Contact our award-winning team today to discuss!
