How Mortgage Rates Work

A Quick Explanation Of How Mortgage Rates Work

There are two basic kinds of rates – fixed and adjustable (variable) and understanding how these mortgage rates work in different types of mortgages is the only way to truly decide which home loan is best for you.

Before considering your loan options, it helps to understand the basics of how a mortgage rate works. If you need help, please contact us. - 360.753.1395 Let's Get Started!

There are two basic kinds of rates – fixed and adjustable (variable).  Understanding how these mortgage rates work  

is important when deciding which home loan is most suitable for you.

• Fixed rate mortgages are very popular and most frequently chosen because of the high level of security and stability they provide.

Generally offered for either fifteen or thirty years, fixed mortgage rates guarantee a fixed monthly payment at the agreed upon interest rate regardless of the fluctuations in the market place. They work well for people on limited or fixed incomes and for those who prefer to have consistency in their payment schedules.

• Adjustable (or variable rate) mortgage rates have lower interest rates than their fixed counterparts but rise and fall according to the market.

After a predetermined period, the rates are usually adjusted every couple of months to allow for changes in the market.  To prevent you from facing rapidly increasing payments should rates go up drastically, these rates have ceilings or rate caps on the amount that the interest can fluctuate within a predetermined period.

• Variable mortgage rates give consumers greater control and flexibility.

These loans can or maybe a suitable option if you plan on staying in your home for a short period of time, or if you have a limited budget however predict an increase in personal earnings in the near future.  These loans are also attractive if you are looking for lower initial payments or if you feel comfortable knowing that you may have to make larger payments in the future.