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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Laura Harris-Hodges
Coldwell Banker Tomlinson Associated Brokers
8836 Gage Blvd Ste 101-B
Kennewick
WA 99336
509-737-3092
Fax: 509-783-5826
lharris@cbtabs.com

Buying and selling a home is serious business ... after all, for most of us, it is the most important investment we possess. When it comes to selecting a professional, you want a person with the knowledge, characteristics, and resources necessary to best look after your interests. With over 17 years of real estate experience, Laura goes the extra mile for all of her clients. That’s why she constantly researches the market and property values to insure that you achieve your goals. Laura is ranked in the top 1% of all Coldwell Banker agents nationally and is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Tri-Cities Home Construction Specialist. From selling to purchasing or building your new home, you won't find a harder working professional to handle all of your real estate needs. Laura Harris-Hodges “Making A Difference For You”

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