Listen to a Business English Dialogue About Adjustable rate mortgage
Eugene: Hi Isla, do you know what an “adjustable rate mortgage” is in business and finance?
Isla: No, I’m not familiar with it. What does it involve?
Eugene: An adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, is a type of home loan where the interest rate fluctuates over time based on changes in a specified financial index, such as the prime rate.
Isla: So, it’s different from a fixed-rate mortgage where the interest rate stays the same throughout the loan term?
Eugene: Exactly. With an ARM, the initial interest rate is typically lower than that of a fixed-rate mortgage, but it can adjust periodically, which can result in higher or lower monthly payments depending on market conditions.
Isla: How often do adjustable rate mortgages adjust?
Eugene: It depends on the terms of the loan, but adjustments typically occur annually after an initial fixed-rate period, which can range from a few months to several years.
Isla: Are there any benefits to having an adjustable rate mortgage?
Eugene: One benefit is that borrowers may initially enjoy lower monthly payments during the fixed-rate period, which can be advantageous if interest rates are expected to decrease in the future.
Isla: What are the risks associated with adjustable rate mortgages?
Eugene: The main risk is that if interest rates rise significantly after the initial fixed-rate period, borrowers could see a substantial increase in their monthly mortgage payments, potentially causing financial strain.
Isla: Can borrowers predict how much their payments will increase when their ARM adjusts?
Eugene: It can be difficult to predict future interest rate movements and their impact on mortgage payments, which is why borrowers should carefully consider their financial situation and risk tolerance before choosing an ARM.
Isla: Are there any safeguards in place for borrowers with adjustable rate mortgages?
Eugene: Yes, lenders are required to provide borrowers with clear disclosures about the terms of the ARM, including how and when the interest rate can adjust, to help them make informed decisions.
Isla: Thanks for explaining, Eugene. Adjustable rate mortgages seem like an option for borrowers who are comfortable with the possibility of payment fluctuations.
Eugene: You’re welcome, Isla. It’s important for borrowers to weigh the pros and cons of an ARM and consider their long-term financial goals before committing to one.