Lock In Your Future: The Fixed-Rate Mortgage Unveiled

Get the keys to financial stability with our definitive guide to fixed-rate mortgages. Explore rates, terms, and lender options to secure your dream home without the guesswork.

What are fixed-rate mortgages?

A Fixed-Rate Mortgage is a type of home loan where the interest rate remains the same for the entire duration of the loan. Fixed-Rate Mortgages are the most common type of mortgage because they offer stability and predictability in monthly mortgage payments.​

Types of fixed-rate mortgages

30 year fixed-rate mortgage

The most popular type of mortgage with a fixed interest rate for 30 years.

20 year fixed rate mortgage

Similar to the 30-year mortgage, but with a shorter term and slightly higher monthly payments.

15 year fixed rate mortgage

Offers the shortest term of fixed interest rates, but typically has the highest monthly payments.

Mortgage benefits of fixed-rate mortgages

Builds equity faster than Adjustable-Rate Mortgages.  Provides a stable payment schedule, making budgeting and financial planning easier.  Can be refinanced at any time if interest rates drop, allowing homeowners to potentially save money on their monthly mortgage payment.

Interest rate trends of fixed-rate mortgages

Interest rates on Fixed-Rate Mortgages are influenced by a variety of factors, including economic conditions, inflation, and the decisions of the Federal Reserve.

Historically, Fixed-Rate Mortgages have tended to have higher interest rates than Adjustable-Rate Mortgages, but provide more stability and predictability in monthly payments.

Tax benefits of fixed-rate mortgages

Interest paid on the mortgage is tax-deductible, reducing
the overall cost of borrowing.

Potential for significant tax savings, especially for high-
income earners.

Fixed-rate mortgage programs

Conventional Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Offered by private lenders and are not insured or guaranteed by the government.

FHA Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Insured by the Federal Housing Administration and require a lower down payment than conventional loans.

VA Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs and are available to eligible veterans, service members, and surviving spouses.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Clear answers to common mortgage and homeownership questions in our concise FAQs

What is a fixed-rate mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage is a home loan with a fixed interest rate for the entire term of the loan. The interest rate and monthly payments remain the same, providing stability and predictability for borrowers.

A fixed-rate mortgage is a home loan with a fixed interest rate for the entire term of the loan. The interest rate and monthly payments remain the same, providing stability and predictability for borrowers.                                                                                        

 A fixed-rate mortgage has a fixed interest rate for the entire term of the loan, while an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) has an interest rate that can adjust periodically over the life of the loan.

 To qualify for a fixed-rate mortgage, you’ll need to have a good credit score, a stable income, and a low debt-to-income ratio. Lenders will also look at your employment history and savings.

Homeowners with fixed-rate mortgages may be able to deduct their mortgage interest payments on their federal income taxes, reducing their overall tax liability.

If you miss a payment on your fixed-rate mortgage, your lender may charge a late fee and report the delinquency to the credit bureaus. This can lower your credit score and make it harder to qualify for credit in the future.

 The amount you can borrow with a fixed-rate mortgage will depend on factors like your income, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio. Your lender can help you determine how much you can borrow.

To compare fixed-rate mortgage offers, look at the interest rate, loan term, fees, and closing costs. You can also use online calculators to estimate your monthly payments and total interest costs.

Interest rates for fixed-rate mortgages are influenced by a variety of economic factors, including inflation, the Federal Reserve’s

Fixed-rate mortgages offer stability and predictability, which makes them ideal for homeowners who want to budget and plan for their mortgage payments. They are also a good option for those who plan to stay in their homes for a long time.

The most common types of fixed-rate mortgages are 15-year and 30-year mortgages. There are also 10-year and 20-year options available.

The down payment requirement for a fixed-rate mortgage can vary depending on the lender and the type of loan. Generally, borrowers will need to put down at least 3% to 20% of the home’s purchase price.

Yes, you can refinance a fixed-rate mortgage to get a lower interest rate, change the loan term, or switch to a different type of mortgage.

A fixed-rate mortgage has a fixed interest rate for the entire term of the loan, while a balloon mortgage has a fixed interest rate for a shorter period of time and requires a large payment at the end of the term.

Yes, you can pay off your fixed-rate mortgage early without penalty. However, some lenders may charge a prepayment penalty if you pay off the loan too soon.

If interest rates rise after you get a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate and monthly payment will not change. However, if rates fall, you may be able to refinance your mortgage to get a lower rate.