Mountain Sky Properties wants to help you every step of the way, including how to understand the types of mortgages you can apply for when purchasing a home. Fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages are the two main types of mortgages, but there is a wide variety of other mortgage products available. Below are pros and cons of just a few of the mortgage products you may want to consider.
Type of Mortgage | Pros | Cons |
Fixed-Rate Mortgage | No surprises. The interest rate stays the same over the entire term, usually 15, 20 or 30 years. | If interest rates fall, you could be stuck paying a higher rate. |
Adjustable-Rate (ARM) or Variable-Rate Mortgage | Usually offers a lower initial rate of interest than fixed-rate loans. | After an initial period, rates fluctuate over the life of the loan. When interest rates rise, your loan payments will generally do the same. |
FHA (Federal Housing Administration) Loan | Allows buyers who may not qualify for a home loan to obtain one. Low down payment. | Size of your loan may be limited. |
VA Loan | Guaranteed loans for eligible veterans, active duty personnel and surviving spouses. Offers competitive rates, low or no down payments. | Size of your loan may be limited. |
Balloon Mortgage | Usually a fixed rate loan with relatively low payments for a fixed period. | After an initial period, the entire balance of the loan is due immediately. This type of loan may be risky for some borrowers. |
Interest-Only | Borrower pays only the interest on the loan, in monthly payments, for a fixed term. | After an initial period, the balance of the loan is due. This could mean much higher payments, paying a lump sum or refinancing. |
Reverse Mortgage | Allows seniors to convert equity in their homes to cash; you don’t have to pay back the loan and interest as long as you live in the house. | Subject to aggressive lending practices and false advertising promises, particularly by lenders that prey on seniors. Check to make sure the loan is Federally insured. |
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