Fixed vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages
Which mortgage type fits your plans and risk tolerance.
October 11, 2026 · 5 min read
The two main types of mortgages behave very differently.
Fixed-rate
Your rate and payment never change. Most buyers choose a 30-year fixed for predictability.
Adjustable-rate (ARM)
A lower introductory rate for 5, 7 or 10 years, then adjusts with the market.
Which is right?
- Staying long-term: fixed
- Moving or refinancing within a few years: an ARM may save money
Always compare the APR, not just the rate.