If you're on a Galaxy Fold, consider unfolding your phone or viewing it in full screen to best optimize your experience.
Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures that our product ratings are not influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page.
Home buyers have a choice of fixed or adjustable-rate mortgages. A 5/1 ARM is one of the more popular types of adjustable-rate mortgages. With this loan type, rates are fixed for the first five years. Then, your rate adjusts once annually.
5/1 ARM mortgage introductory rates are often lower than the rates on fixed-rate loans, but they come with a risk: If interest rates rise in the future, your loan payments could go up. Conversely, if you don't plan to stay in your home longer than five years, the lower rate could make your monthly housing payments more affordable.
Here are the current 5/1 ARM interest rates so you can see what you'd pay if you opt to take this risk.
A 5/1 ARM differs from a fixed-rate mortgage because the interest rate is only fixed for a limited time. For the first five years, you pay the rate you started with when you borrowed. After that, rates can change once annually.
When your interest rate adjusts, the new rate on a 5/1 ARM is determined by a financial index, called the benchmark index, which will be disclosed to you upfront. Often, the benchmark index is the federal funds rate or the LIBOR index.
Adjustable-rate mortgages like a 5/1 ARM are usually repaid over 30 years. The time it takes to pay off your loan will never change. But the interest rate and payment due might fluctuate with the underlying benchmark index. If the rate rises, your monthly payment goes up. That's because more money is needed to cover interest costs while paying down principal. Paying both ensures your loan is paid off on time.
When you take out a 5/1 ARM, your initial mortgage documents will indicate the maximum amount the rate can go up. Make sure your payment would still be affordable even if it went up by that amount.
Many mortgage lenders offer adjustable-rate mortgages. Some of these include banks, online lenders, and credit unions. You should get quotes from multiple lenders. Look for the most affordable interest rate and the best overall loan terms.
Be sure to compare 5/1 ARMs only to other adjustable-rate mortgages with the same initial fixed-rate period. A 15-year or 30-year fixed-rate mortgage will likely have a higher interest rate. Remember that while you pay a lower starting rate with a 5/1 ARM, your payment could rise sooner than with a 7/1 ARM. And no adjustable-rate mortgage offers the predictability of a fixed-rate loan with a payment that never changes.
When comparing lenders, find out the terms that would apply if you borrow. Look for providers who do not require a hard credit check to get prequalified. Too many hard inquiries can reduce your credit score.
Be sure to compare more than just interest rates. Also look at total fees each lender charges, as well as qualifying requirements and possible penalties. The annual percentage rate (APR) includes the cost of both fees and interest, so comparing APRs can be more accurate than comparing interest rates alone.
There are benefits to a 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage. Your rate usually starts lower than with a fixed-rate mortgage or an ARM with a longer initial fixed period. Because of this, your monthly mortgage payment is typically more affordable. This can make it possible to stretch to buy a home you might not otherwise qualify to buy.
However, you take a big risk by opting for an adjustable-rate mortgage. Your rate and payment could increase. You're giving up the predictability a fixed-rate loan provides, and you could end up paying more in the long run. While many people plan to move or refinance before their rate adjusts, plans don't always come to fruition. If you're unable to relocate or qualify for a new loan, paying your bill could become a burden.
It's important to evaluate this major risk. Review your loan documents carefully and ensure you'd be able to afford your loan even if rates rise by the maximum allowed.
Looking to refinance an adjustable-rate mortgage? Check out our guide to learn more about why you might want to refinance your adjustable-rate mortgage.
If you want to uncover more about the best mortgage lenders for low rates and fees, our experts have created a shortlist of the top mortgage companies. Some of our experts have even used these lenders themselves to cut their costs.
A 5/1 arm is an adjustable-rate mortgage where your interest rate is fixed for the first five years. After that, rates can change once annually.
You should look for the most affordable interest rate and the best overall loan terms by getting quotes from multiple lenders.
A 5/1 ARM may be a good option for you if you are planning to move or refinance your mortgage before the interest rate adjusts.
We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Motley Fool Money is 100% owned and operated by The Motley Fool. Our knowledgeable team of personal finance editors and analysts are employed by The Motley Fool and held to the same set of publishing standards and editorial integrity while maintaining professional separation from the analysts and editors on other Motley Fool brands.