There are a number of ways to estimate how much credit you can handle for mortgages and other loan types. Use mortgage calculators to try different "what-if" calculations and scenarios to get an accurate handle on what you can afford.
You know that shopping for your mortgage is at least as important as shopping for your home, because the right loan can save you tens of thousands of dollars.
You should get multiple mortgage quotes from lenders who offer competitive mortgages in your area, with interest rate, points, down payment, fees, ARM caps, and more input data as would apply to your individual situation. Most online mortgage referral brokers provide for three quotes for various competing lenders.
Mortgage Interest rates
Primarily, interest rates are influenced by supply and demand. When the economy is robust and borrowing is strong, interest rates rise. When the economy weakens and there is less borrowing, interest rates go down. Long-term mortgage rates are affected by inflation concerns, which the Fed tries to maintain in check.
Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM)
Many people have used an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to get lower monthly mortgage payments. However, interest rates have been rising. When the Fed raises interest rates, rates for short-term mortgages such as home equity loans and adjustable rate mortgages raise too.If your ARM is reaching the end of its fixed period your mortgage payment could increase considerabley.
Fully Amortizing ARM
This is the most common type of ARM. The monthly payment is calculated to payoff the entire mortgage balance at the end of the term. The term is typically 30 years. After any fixed interest rate period has passed, the interest rate and payment adjusts annually. A Fully Amortizing ARM will also have a maximum rate that it will not overtake. This calculator uses a maximum interest rate of 12%. Below is a list of the most common types of Fully Amortizing ARMs.
Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) get a Lower rate and increase Your Monthly Cash Flow
Don't miss an opportunity to lock into a low fixed-rate and payment today. Refinance into a home loan that works best for you. With low long-term interest rates, refinancing to a fixed-rate mortgage can be a smart financial move. If you only plan on living in your home for a few more years, refinancing to a new ARM is also a good option.
Interest Only ARM
An Interest Only ARM insists monthly interest payments. Since you are not paying any mainline principal, as you are with the other two types of mortgages described above, this can lower your monthly payment. However, since your mortgage's principal balance is not decreased, you will have a balloon payment at the end of the mortgage's term.
Like a Fully Amortizing ARM, an Interest Only ARM will often have a period where the interest rate is fixed, and then it is adjusted annually. An Interest Only ARM will also have a maximum interest rate that it will not rise above. The calculator may use a maximum interest rate of 12%.
Interest-only options can help if your monthly budget is tight. However it's like playing the stock market without the liquidity of instant selling. If mortgage interest rates increase drastically your payment may become unmanageable.
Fixed-Rate mortgage: Offers Peace of Mind with a fixed-Rate
A fixed rate mortgage has the same interest rate and monthly payment throughout the term of the mortgage. The payment is calculated to payoff the mortgage balance at the end of the term. The most common terms are 15 year and 30 years.