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One of the most important factors of the home buying experience is the mortgage loan you undertake. With at least eight different types, there are five that are the most common. The following types of mortgage loans are the ones held by most homeowners in the United States.
1. Conventional Mortgage
A conventional mortgage is the standard mortgage that comes to most people's minds when they think about qualifying for a loan. Distinguished because of their fixed interest rate and consistent monthly payments, conventional mortgages are available in terms ranging from 10 to 40 years with 15 and 30-year loans the most common.
2. Adjustable-Rate Mortgage
An adjustable-rate mortgage might also be referred to by its acronym: ARM. There are a number of different types of ARMs but their basic premise is the same. The interest rate tied to the mortgage fluctuates according to factors like changes in the cost of borrowing money and other economic factors. The 5/1 loan is a common type of ARM. The interest rate charged on the loan remains the same over the first five years of the loan. For the remaining 25 years, the interest rate can change.
3. Interest-Only Mortgage
An interest-only mortgage can be a valuable economic tool but it's best undertaken by those who understand its implications. During the first 5 or 10 years of an interest-only mortgage, you can opt to pay only the interest on the loan. You aren't obligated to pay only the interest during that time. After the first 5 or 10 years, the loan is treated like its a conventional mortgage.
4. VA Loans
VA loans are backed by the federal government, overseen by the Department of Veteran Affairs and don't require a down payment. These loans are limited to members of the military. In some cases, spouses can take advantage of VA loans.
5. FHA Loans
Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans include mortgage insurance that is built into them. This helps protect the lender in the event that the home buyer cannot repay the loan. FHA loans also have lower down payments which are designed to help more people purchase a home.
In some cases, a seller might not want to participate in a particular mortgage loan. Your real estate agent is a great source of information about mortgage options, check with them for more guidance.
About the Author
Jamie Jamieson
Professional Association National Association of Realtors (NAR) New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR) Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors/ Hudson Gateway Multiple Listing Service Education I hold an A.A in Italian Studies and an A.S in Accounting as well as being one of few students accepted into the Cambridge University International Student Study Program abroad as a returning student in 2011. Community Involvement I am proud to serve on the Home & School Board for St. Augustine School in Ossining and maintain the role of a Girl Scout leader. I am an active member of the community assisting in a variety of fundraising efforts. Personal I am a young and energetic agent who prides myself on providing personalized service with honest representation whether you are buying or selling your home. My expertise of the river towns, attention to detail and excitement for real estate are a few of the many assets I will bring to you. I will utilize my eagerness and market knowledge of the area to build lasting relationships with all of my clients that will extend far beyond the closing table. Be at ease from start to finish with my help. In my spare time, I love exploring the Hudson Valley with my husband, three children and our dog, Pippin. I love scoping out the infinite restaurants, farmers markets and other fabulous activities this exciting county has to offer. Experience Before joining William Raveis Legends Realty Group I started my career with Hudson Homes Sotheby's International Realty team. Prior to real estate, I had a remarkable 15+ year career in Restaurant Management/Hospitality including Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Rivermarket and several establishments in Newport, Rhode Island. My experience in that field provided me with the foundation of excellence in customer service. Areas Covered All of Westchester County and parts of Putnam County.