With a lower principal and interest payment, this home loan is ideal if you plan to move, refinance, or transition to a different home within a few years

Flexibility when plans may change

An Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) starts with a fixed interest rate for a set number of years. During that time, your rate — along with your principal and interest payment — stay the same. This can help keep payments lower while you settle into your home. If your plans shift down the road, an ARM provides built-in flexibility to adapt.

Lower initial payments

ARMs often begin with a lower rate than many fixed-rate mortgages. That can mean lower monthly payments during the early years of your loan — creating breathing room as you establish your home. 

Multiple fixed periods

You can choose from several fixed-period options within your adjustable-rate loan. This allows you to align your mortgage structure with how long you expect to stay in the home.

Annual rate adjustments

After the fixed period ends, the rate may adjust once per year, depending on your loan terms. Any rate changes are communicated in advance, along with the exact date your new rate and payment would begin.

Short-term ownership fit

An ARM may be a strong fit if you don’t plan to live in the home long term. If you expect to move or refinance within a few years, it can offer meaningful flexibility.

Ready to apply? Meet our mortgage loan specialists

Our Mortgage Loan Advisors will begin by evaluating the big picture before offering a personal solution designed to fit your lifestyle. To apply for a loan, please select one of the advisors below and they will help support you throughout the process.

Bob Church

Bob Church

Mortgage Loan Advisor

Phone: 336-774-4135

Contact Bob

Apply now
David Zufelt

David Zufelt

Mortgage Loan Advisor

Phone: 336-774-2737

Contact David

Apply now

How to get started with an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

Buying a home is a big milestone. We’ll help you understand how an adjustable-rate mortgage works, what impacts your rate, and what to expect over time—so you can move forward with confidence.

01
Apply online

Complete your Adjustable-Rate Mortgage application through our secure portal. You can enter your details, upload documents, and save your progress along the way. 

02
Review your loan with us

A local mortgage specialist will review your information and connect with you directly. We’ll explain your rate, fixed period, adjustment schedule, and what to expect over time — in plain language. 

03
Close with confidence

When everything is ready, we’ll walk through the final details together and complete your closing. We stay beside you throughout the process so you feel informed and prepared.

Your questions, answered

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a home loan that begins with a fixed interest rate for a set number of years. After the fixed period ends, the rate may adjust based on market conditions and loan terms. During the fixed period, your principal and interest payment stays the same. 

Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) options may include 5/1, 7/1, 10/1, 2/1, and 15/5 structures. For example, a 5/1 ARM has a fixed rate for five years and then may adjust annually. Each option offers a different balance of stability and flexibility. 

A 15-year mortgage offers lower interest rates and faster equity growth but requires higher monthly payments, saving you significant interest long-term. A 30-year mortgage offers lower, more manageable monthly payments and greater financial flexibility, though it results in higher total interest costs.

For most adjustable-rate mortgages, such as 5/1, 7/1, and 10/1 loans, the rate may adjust once per year after the fixed period ends. Rate caps limit how much the interest rate can increase at each adjustment and over the life of the loan. 

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) may be a strong option if you plan to move, refinance, or transition to another home within a few years. An ARM can provide lower initial payments while offering flexibility if your plans change. 

A fixed-rate mortgage keeps the same interest rate for the life of the loan. An adjustable-rate mortgage starts with a fixed period, but the rate may adjust afterward based on loan terms. The right choice depends on your timeline and comfort with potential rate changes. 

An escrow account is a separate account used to pay your property taxes and homeowners insurance. A portion of your monthly mortgage payment is set aside in escrow account so those bills can be paid on time. Each year, your account is reviewed to ensure the correct amount is being collected. If taxes or insurance premiums change, your total monthly payment may adjust accordingly.