arm vs fixed rate calculator

ARM vs Fixed Calculator

Compare fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage costs over your expected hold period.

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ARM vs Fixed Calculator

Compare fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage costs over your expected hold period.

Loan amount

Same loan amount for both options

$

Fixed-rate option

30-year fixed

Your estimate — your actual rate is set after applying.

ARM option

Adjustable-rate mortgage

Your estimate — your actual rate is set after applying.

Your plans

How long you expect to keep the loan

7 years
Cost difference over 7 years
$23,965
ARM costs less over your hold period
Fixed payment
$3,243
ARM initial payment
$2,958
ARM payment after year 7
$3,512
Balance at adjustment
$447,190
Fixed — total paidARM — total paid
0612182430
See ARM and fixed options

Estimates only — an example scenario, not a commitment to lend. Your interest rate is your own estimate; actual rate, payment and terms are determined after a full application and credit review.

How to use this calculator

An ARM can make sense when the initial rate savings are meaningful and you expect to sell or refinance before the adjustment period. A fixed-rate mortgage is simpler and more predictable because the principal and interest payment does not change over the term.

ARM loans have an initial fixed period, such as 5, 7, or 10 years. After that, the rate can adjust based on an index such as SOFR plus a margin, subject to caps. Caps limit how much the rate can change at first adjustment, each later adjustment, and over the life of the loan.

This calculator compares total payments and interest over the years you expect to keep the loan. It also shows a risk scenario if the ARM adjusts higher. The right answer depends on timeline, payment comfort, refinance flexibility, and risk tolerance.

For illustration purposes only. Not a rate quote, loan offer, or commitment to lend. Contact us for a personalized quote.

FAQs

Is an ARM or fixed rate better right now?

It depends on rate spread, time horizon, and risk tolerance. Compare both for your expected hold period.

What happens when my ARM rate adjusts?

After the fixed period, the rate can move based on its index, margin, and caps.

Can I refinance out of an ARM before it adjusts?

Often yes, if you qualify and market conditions make sense.

What are rate caps on an ARM?

Caps limit how much the rate can increase at adjustment and over the life of the loan.

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