ARM vs Fixed-rate Mortgages

ARM vs Fixed-rate Mortgages
The mortgage market is constantly changing, and smart consumers keep a close eye on those changes to determine the most strategic time to apply for a mortgage. At this point, the difference in interest rates between an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) and a fixed-rate loan has narrowed significantly. Therefore, more applicants are opting for a fixed-rate mortgage when purchasing a home. And an increasing number of homeowners are refinancing their existing ARM with a new fixed-rate mortgage. The most recent economic indicators show that inflation is, indeed, being held in check, said Freddie Mac s Frank Nothaft. That news allowed long-term mortgage rates to drift a little lower in recent weeks. Shorter-term rates, however, rose in reaction to comments by Chairman Bernanke, of the Federal Reserve Board, that hinted at continuing rate hikes this year. The housing industry remains fundamentally fit as we continue to progress into the spring home buying season, Nothaft said. Fortunately, mortgage interest rates are still at historic low levels, while home prices continue to rise. An increasing number of applicants are applying for 35 and 40 year term mortgages as a means of reducing their monthly payments while staying with a fixed-rate loan. This also makes it easier to qualify for a needed mortgage. The concern about an ARM loan s increasing interest rates and payments in future months and years is understandable. Many recent applicants are seeking more peace of mind by applying for a fixed-rate loan when purchasing a home or refinancing their mortgage.Copyright 2006 TheLow Quote.com Syndicated real estate columnist and feature writer Mortgage / Real Estate Update Report www.TheLowQuote.com
Source: www.ArticlePros.com

Finding Home Loans When You Have Bad Credit
Just because you have bad credit does not mean you can not find a home loan that is perfect for you. The best place to start is online. You can find several lenders online that can help you purchase a home even if you have bad credit. The first thing you should do before you begin searching for a home loan is to get together all your information. You will need any financial statements that you have including your IRS tax form and any other information regarding your income now. If you are looking to buy a home, you should know the price of the home you are planning on buying and how much you can afford to use as a down payment. Most lending companies for home loans for people with bad credit require at least 10% down. But, if you can afford 20% percent you can save hundreds of dollars of year by avoiding private mortgage insurance. Check out the lending company. Some designed for high risk loans, which are people with bad credit. These companies usually charge a couple of interest points higher than other lending companies, because they do accept high risk clients. They will also require a down payment so they will get something if they have to foreclose on your loan. So, be sure that you read all the fine print before you agree to a loan. Remember to compare rates. Home loan lending companies vary in their mortgage rates and this amount can be as much as 5% which can really add up to hundred or thousands of dollars over the length of your home loan. It is always best to receive quotes from several different home loan lending companies before you actually make a decision. Always be sure to look for other fees that may be added to your home loan. These fees should be taken into consideration along with the interest rate. When you receive a good quote you should take it, these quotes do not always last while you take your time to decide. Mortgages rates vary daily. You can find more information about loans at "<a href="http://www.loan-masterz.com">What is a Personal Loan</a>" by clicking <a href="http://www.loan-masterz.com">http://www.loan-masterz.com</a>.
Source: www.ArticlePros.com