Mortgage Interest Rate

Fixed, Variable or Adjustable Interest Rate

Mortgage interest rates are either fixed, variable or adjustable. A fixed rate is a locked-in rate that will not increase for the term of the mortgage. A variable rate fluctuates based on market conditions while the mortgage payment remains unchanged. With an adjustable rate, both the interest rate and the mortgage payment vary based on market conditions.

Closed Mortgage

A closed mortgage may be a good choice if you’d like to have a fixed payment that will allow you to adjust your budget to your new lifestyle. However, closed mortgages are not flexible and there are often penalties or restrictive conditions attached to prepayments or additional lump sum payments. It may not be the best choice if you decide to move before the end of the term or if you want to benefit from a potential decrease of interest rates.

Open Mortgage

This type of mortgage is flexible and can usually be pre-paid by any lump sum or paid off at any time without penalty. An open mortgage can be a good choice if you plan to sell your home in the near future or to pre-pay with large lump sums. Most lenders will allow you to convert to a closed mortgage at any time, although you may have to pay a small fee.

Term

Your lender will also tell you about the term options for the mortgage. This is the length of time that the agreed-upon mortgage contract conditions, including interest rate, will be fixed. It can vary from six months to 10 years. Choosing a longer term (for example, five years) gives you the chance to plan ahead and protects you from interest rate increases while you adjust to home ownership. Weigh your options carefully and don’t be afraid to ask your lender to work out the differences between a one, two, five-year or longer terms.