Homeowner Loans - The Types And Differences

Posted by Nick Niesen on October 29th, 2010

Homeowner loans or mortgages come in two basic types. There are fixed rate homeowner loans and adjustable rate homeowner loans. These terms refer to the interest rate applied to the loan.

Both types of loans have pros and cons. Before a person decides on which type of homeowner loan to get they should understand each type so they can make the best decision for them.

Fixed rate loans have a locked in interest rate. When the loan is made, the current interest rate is used for the life of the loan. The biggest advantage to this type of loan is that the monthly payment amount will not change.

However, if the rate locked in at is rather high then in the long run the homeowner will pay a lot for the loan. Fortunately, there is the option of refinancing when interest rates fall. This does involve more paperwork and can include additionally costs. Some people may not prefer this option due to these factors.

Adjustable rate loans have an interest rate that changes as the interest rates change. With this type of loan the monthly payment will change. The homeowner will not ever know exactly how much they need to pay until the due date.

The good point about this type of loan is that they allow the homeowner to take advantage when rates drop right away. However, if rates suddenly rise the homeowner is stuck with them.

Some people prefer to start with an adjustable rate if the market has been steadily falling. Once they reach a comfortable rate they then switch to a fixed rate loan so they can lock in at the lowest rate possible. Some people go with a fixed rate loan and simply refinance whenever the rates fall drastically.

The choice between a fixed rate and adjustable rate homeowners loan is something that should be made carefully. Lenders have created homeowner loans that combine aspects of both types of loans to try to entice buyers. Mixes loans may start out as fixed and turn to adjustable or start out adjustable and turn to fixed.

They may offer a fixed rate at a discount for a few months and then lock in at the current rate after that initial time period. These types of mixed loans are really a sales tactic, but they can prove to be very helpful for a person who is unsure which type of homeowner loan to go for.

Homeowner loans can be very confusing, especially when it comes to interest rates. The whole idea is to choose the loan that will cost the least. However, with interest rates changing all the time it is often hard to figure out just what the best rate is.

One of your options is to find a good mortgage broker, ask your friends and family if they can recommend one to you. Using a mortgage broker will make your life a lot easier, saving you both time and money.

They will be able to look at your requirements and circumstances and go away and find a homeowner loan that best fits your criteria. They will charge you a fee, but in long run you will save money.