Momentum Realty Group
Carolyn Brown, Momentum Realty GroupPhone: (510) 882-3454
Email: [email protected]

Understanding the fixed rate mortgage definition

by Carolyn Brown 04/08/2024

To choose the right mortgage loan, it’s important to understand the “fixed rate mortgage” definition. This type of loan has several advantages, including predictable monthly payments and long repayment terms. However, a fixed rate mortgage might not be right for everyone.

Here is a quick guide to understanding this type of mortgage:

Fixed-rate mortgages vs. adjustable-rate mortgages

When comparing mortgages, you’ll encounter fixed rate mortgages and adjustable rate mortgages. As the name suggests, the interest rate of an ARM adjusts with market fluctuations, but the loans are offered at low introductory rates for a limited time period. 

ARMs usually have introductory rates lasting anywhere from one to five years. Once the introductory period ends, your interest rate will increase with a cap of to 2% per year, or 5% over the lifetime of the loan. 

Compared to fixed rate mortgages, ARMs are more complex loan programs and typically better for borrowers who have less intention of staying in the same home for an extended period of time.

Pros & cons of a fixed-rate mortgage

Fixed-rate loans are incredibly affordable because of the predictable nature of their repayments. While the homeowners coverage and taxes may vary, your mortgage payment will remain the same. This affects your budget for the rest of your month, and plays a major part in your financial planning. 

Besides reducing the risk of default on fixed-rate loans, your loan rate remains constant. Whatever your rate is, the amount you paid will remain unchanged when you took the loan. Often, these rates are higher than they would be for an ARM.

How long does it take to repay a fixed-rate mortgage?

Fixed-rate mortgages can be repaid during a predetermined amount of time. They are usually offered as 30-year home loans, giving you a maximum of 30 years to pay the full amount. 

This may seem like a long time, but the extended timeline is one thing that ensures a lower monthly mortgage payment.

There are other options available, such as a 15-year mortgage. These can work well if the borrower has sufficient cash to pay the loan more quickly while still taking advantage of the fixed interest rate.


About the Author
Author

Carolyn Brown

Hi, I'm Carolyn Brown and I have over 20+ years of real estate experience, serving Bay Area Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Solano, Sonoma, Sacramento, and Central Valley. I have a Master's Degree in Psychology and I work part-time for West Contra Costa Unified School District. This has afforded me the opportunity to connect with families and communities.  

I have always been a giver and compassionate about serving and helping others. A real estate career was never my goal but the passion I have to help others changed that and I would love to help you! Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.  

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