What is an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM)?

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is characterized by an interest rate that is often fixed for an initial period and then adjusts periodically based on market conditions. The typical structure of an ARM includes a fixed interest rate for the first few years, offering stability during that time. Afterward, the interest rate adjusts based on a specific index plus a margin, which generally results in fluctuations in monthly payments.

This option captures the essence of what an ARM is, allowing borrowers to initially benefit from lower rates before experiencing potential increases in their payments when the ARM adjusts. Understanding this feature is crucial for borrowers, as it signifies that their monthly payment amounts may change over time, unlike fixed-rate mortgages, where the payment remains consistent throughout the loan term.