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Fixed vs. Adjustable Rate Mortgages

Choosing between a fixed rate mortgage and an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) is one of the most important decisions you can make when choosing a home loan. Find out why.

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What are they?

Fixed Rate Mortgages

Fixed rate mortgages have set interest rates that don’t change over the life of the loan. This makes it easier to budget your monthly payments.

ARMs

ARMs typically start at a lower rate, but change over time. Those changes depend on the financial markets, meaning the rate can go up or down. These changes are then reflected in your monthly payment. For example, if your rate goes up, so will your payment. In some cases, ARMs are capped to limit your monthly payment from changing too much.

How do they compare?

Fixed Rate Mortgages

  • Interest rates stay the same for the life of the loan, so you’re protected from spikes in your monthly payments if the markets change.
  • Fixed rate mortgages are usually offered over 10-, 15- and 30-year periods.
  • While principal and interest might change from month to month, your payment stays the same – making budgeting easy and predictable.

ARMs

  • ARMs have a fixed rate for the initial period (usually between 3 and 10 years), then adjust every year over the life of your loan.
  • ARMs often feature rate caps that limit how high your rate can go and how much your payments can change.
  • Since ARMs have rates that can go up or down after the fixed period expires, your monthly payments can change as well.

What's best for you?

Fixed Rate Mortgages

Fixed rate mortgages are the most popular option for people who value stability, and who plan on staying in their home for a long time. It’s important to note, however, that even though the interest rate is fixed, changes to your property taxes, homeowners insurance or mortgage insurance can still affect your monthly payments.

ARMs

ARMs may work well for people who plan on paying off their mortgage quickly, or who know they’ll be moving before the fixed period of their mortgage ends. Keep in mind that if you stay in your house longer than you expected, you may end up paying more in the long run.

Related Topics

Consider your mortgage options

Consider key factors, like the type of loan, the type of interest rate and the loan term.

Learn More

Learn how amortization works

Amortization is an important home buying term, meaning paying off a loan over time.

Learn More

Find out what affects mortgage rates

Your credit score, the type of rate you choose and your property's location are some of the factors that make a difference.

Learn More

Find the option that's right for you.  

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