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.

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Lacie Maynard
Realty Executives
3479 Gulf Shores Parkway, Ste. B
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
800-760-6019
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Always willing to go the extra mile, Lacie's outstanding attention to detail has earned her continual referral business as well as a wealth of new business. For nearly a decade, Lacie has been a top listing and selling agent all along the Alabama Coastline. As one of America's NUMBER1EXPERTS™ in the Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Foley area Lacie is well equipped to guide you through all your real estate needs. Call or email her today!