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Tips On Refinancing Your Home - When To Convert To An Arm
By: Carrie Reeder iSnare Expert Author
Common advice tells borrowers they should refinance their adjustable rate
mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate mortgage. However, there are times when it makes
better financial sense to do the reverse. The prime reason is that an ARM
provides lower rates.
Low Interest Rates Of An ARM
An ARM’s primary benefit is a lower interest rate. Typically a couple of points
lower than a fixed-rate mortgage, an ARM can save you thousands. The downside is
that an ARM’s rates can rise.
However, if you are planning to move in a couple of years or expect rates to
drop, then an ARM may be worth the risk. If you are worried about rising rates,
you can select an ARM with rate and payment caps. There are also ARMs that
convert to a fixed-rate after a preset number of years.
Smaller Payments With An ARM
An ARM can also give you smaller payments temporarily through lower rates. Even
though these payments may rise, you can expect your wages to increase with the
rate of inflation as well.
If you need some temporary breathing room in your budget, you may find that an
ARM can help. There is always risk with this option, especially if you are
planning on a promotion or career change in the future.
Considering The Costs
While lower interest rates can save you money, the loan costs can eat into your
financial savings. Loan fees can easily add up to $3000, in addition to points.
The general rule of thumb is that after three years, you will be saving money on
the refinance deal.
There are times when you can see a savings earlier, especially if rates are more
than two percent lower or you find a low cost refinancing deal.
To really know if you will save by refinancing, you need to research rates. Ask
for quotes from several lending institutions. Then figure out your interest
payments with the help of a mortgage calculator. Compare these with your current
interest charges, and you will know what type of savings to expect. Subtract the
loan fees and points, and you will find if you can come out ahead in the end.
About the Author:
See my recommended Home Mortgage Refinance Lenders for the lowest rates online.
Carrie Reeder is the owner of ABC Loan Guide, which offers help finding low rate home mortgage loans. |