Here is a tip for those who are shopping for Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs): the "margin" is almost as important as the initial rate. The margin is the percentage point above the average yields for Treasury notes on which future rate adjustments will be calculated.

Let's compare two hypothetical one-year ARMs. The first may have an initial interest rate of 7% with a 2.5 margin, while the second begins at 6 7/8% with a 2.75 margin. Both loans have rate caps of 2%. Suppose that at the end of the first year of the loan, the average of the one-year Treasury note yield has been 5 1/2%. For each loan, the lenders will add the margin to that 5 1/2% average yield. Thus the interest rate for first loan would increase from 7% to 8%, and the second would go from 6 7/8% to 8 1/4%. While the first ARM had a slightly higher initial rate, it will have lower rates in subsequent years, unless the Treasury note rates increase enough to activate the annual caps on the amount of the increase. There is a wide variance among margins in ARMs offered by competing lenders, and this should be a factor when you decide on your loan.

	See All Tips In The "Financing Your Home" Category >
	See Complete Library Of Hundreds Of Tips In 30+ Categories >

Sean & Christine Remington
Prudential Sandia Real Estate
6739 Academy NE, Suite 200
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Sean: 505-307-4006
Christine: 505-977-2004
Fax: 888-291-7121
Sean's Email: Sean@SeanRemington.com
Christine's Email: ChristineRNM@gmail.com

Don't leave such important decisions in the hands of just any real estate agent. Trust one of New Mexico's Top Real Estate Teams who makes it look fun and easy; Sean & Christine Remington. Having gone the extra mile to pursue extended education in real estate coupled with a heavy volume of experience ensures that when choosing to work with Sean & Christine - you have made the right choice.