A conventional mortgage refers to any loan that is not insured or guaranteed by the federal government, as opposed to government-insured loans including Federal Housing Administration (FHA), U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Conventional mortgages (whether conforming or not) typically have a slightly higher down payment than government loans; however, this loan option normally provides more flexibility with fewer restrictions.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage
An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a loan term option with interest rates that can change periodically after the initial fixed-rate period. After this introductory period, monthly payments are susceptible to increases or decreases based on market fluctuations, which can also affect the monthly payment. An ARM could be the right choice for you if you plan on staying in your home for just a few years, you’re expecting a future pay increase, or the current interest rate on a fixed-rate mortgage is too high
Fixed-Rate Mortgage
Fixed-rate mortgages protect you against rising rates since the interest rate remains the same for the entire term of the loan. Plus, you have the option of selecting a 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30-year term. The main difference is the lower term options have higher monthly payments, which also means you are building home equity faster. Keep in mind you can use equity as a down payment for your next home or a future cash-out refinance. If you plan on staying in your home for a longer time frame, a fixed-rate mortgage could be the right solution for you.