Home Loan Financing

By: EconomyWatch Content   Date: 31 December 2009

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Home loan financing is complex as well as crucial. The complexity arrives from the range of options that are available. It is crucial because it will define the borrower’s debt obligations in the future. So, it becomes essential to understand different types of interest rate options to make the best choice.

Home Loan Financing: Understanding the Interest Rate Options

An interest rate is probably the most determining factor to choose a home loan financing scheme. The range of interest rate options available are:

 

Fixed rate: In a fixed interest rate loan, an individual can lock in for a specific rate for the entire term of the loan. Mostly, people prefer fixed rate for long-term loans such as a 30-year mortgage. Fixed interest rates are higher but they offer financial relief. It becomes possible to plan in advance for future repayments. Those who can afford high monthly repayments should opt for a fixed 15-year mortgage rather than 30-year long term. This will reduce interest rates considerably.

 

Adjustable interest rate (ARM): With a hybrid loan scheme, an individual can receive adjustable interest rates. For example, 5/1 loan offers a fixed interest rate for the first five years. This is followed by yearly revision in the interest rate for the remaining debt amount. Loans with an adjustable interest rate can be easily merged into a mortgage refinance scheme.

 

Optional ARM: Here, the borrower can choose repayment options. S/he can: 

  • Pay off monthly installment in full

  • Pay only the interest earned during that period

  • Pay a portion of the interest 

However, the unpaid interest gets added to the debt amount and thereby, the overall interest rate would rise exceptionally.

                                                       

Interest only: With an interest only option, the borrower has to pay the interest only for a specific initial period, such as five years. At the end of this period, the principal amount and the remaining interest rate can be divided into monthly installments.

Home Loan Financing: Essential Considerations

The following are some essential home loan financing tips pertaining to the interest rate: 

  • Check the frequency of adjustment on ARM - annual, biannual or monthly.

  • Is there a cap on the interest rate which limits the rise of interest rates beyond a threshold? 

Planning smartly is an inevitable facet for those who want to secure a reliable home loan mortgage. Making a decision simply on the basis of a lower interest rate can land the borrower into a debt trap.

 


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