A lower starting rate for borrowers with a defined time horizon.
Adjustable-rate mortgages offer a fixed rate for an initial period, then adjust at defined intervals within rate caps. They may lower your starting payment compared to a 30-year fixed — but require a clear understanding of the adjustment structure before you commit.
What to expect
A process built to keep the next step clear.
Royal United starts by reviewing whether an ARM or fixed-rate structure better fits your timeline and goals — then walks through the adjustment terms, rate caps, and long-term scenarios before the application.
Step 1
Understand the structure
The first step is confirming whether an ARM or a fixed-rate loan is the better fit given your timeline, plans for the property, and comfort with rate variability.
- 1.Review your ownership timeline and plans for the property
- 2.Compare ARM initial periods (e.g. 5/1, 7/1, 10/1) with fixed-rate options
- 3.Understand rate caps, adjustment intervals, and worst-case scenarios
Step 2
Move through application and underwriting
Once the loan structure is confirmed, the process moves through application, appraisal, and underwriting with your advisor coordinating each step.
- 1.Sign the application and confirm the ARM terms
- 2.Complete the property appraisal
- 3.Provide required documentation and complete underwriting
Step 3
Close with full transparency on rate terms
The final stage includes a clear review of the initial rate, adjustment schedule, and cap structure before you sign anything.
- 1.Receive final approval and confirm the closing date
- 2.Review initial rate, adjustment interval, and cap structure in full
- 3.Sign closing documents and take ownership
Program benefits
What an ARM may offer.
General information only. Actual rates, terms, and suitability depend on your credit, income, goals, and the full application. ARMs carry rate variability after the initial period.
Lower initial rate period
ARMs typically offer a lower rate during the initial fixed period compared to 30-year fixed-rate alternatives — which may reduce the starting monthly payment for qualifying borrowers.
Defined adjustment structure
Rate adjustments happen at defined intervals and are subject to caps — limiting how much the rate can change per adjustment and over the life of the loan.
Potential fit for defined time horizons
For borrowers who expect to sell or refinance within the initial fixed period, an ARM may provide a lower cost structure than a long-term fixed-rate loan.
Who this may be a fit for
ARMs may benefit borrowers who have reviewed the adjustment terms carefully.
This is a calculated loan structure. A loan advisor can help you model the initial and adjusted payment scenarios based on your profile and timeline.
Buyers with a defined timeline
Borrowers who plan to sell or refinance before the initial fixed period ends may benefit from the lower starting rate — without exposure to future rate adjustments.
Buyers focused on near-term cash flow
The lower initial payment may improve short-term cash flow flexibility for borrowers who understand and accept the adjustment risk after the fixed period ends.
Borrowers considering rate scenarios carefully
ARMs are a calculated decision. They may fit borrowers who have reviewed the adjustment caps, understands the worst-case scenario, and are making an informed structural choice.
Not a guarantee of eligibility, rates, or suitability. ARMs carry rate adjustment risk after the initial fixed period. Consult a loan advisor before choosing.
What our clients say
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Frequently asked questions
Common questions about adjustable-rate mortgages.
What does the '5/1' in a 5/1 ARM mean?
The first number is the initial fixed-rate period — in this case, 5 years. The second number is the adjustment interval after that period — adjusting once per year. A 7/1 ARM has a 7-year fixed period with annual adjustments afterward; a 10/1 ARM has a 10-year fixed period. The specific structure available depends on your lender and loan program.
How much can my rate increase after the fixed period?
ARM loans include rate caps that limit how much the rate can change. Periodic caps limit adjustments at each interval; lifetime caps limit the total increase over the life of the loan. Specific cap structures vary by loan and lender. A loan advisor can walk you through the caps on any ARM product you're considering.
Is an ARM riskier than a fixed-rate loan?
An ARM introduces rate variability after the fixed period ends, which means your payment could increase if market rates rise. Whether that risk is appropriate depends on your timeline, financial position, and understanding of the adjustment terms. For borrowers who plan to sell or refinance before the first adjustment, the risk may be limited. For those planning to hold long-term, a fixed-rate loan may provide more predictability.
Can I refinance out of an ARM into a fixed-rate loan?
Yes, refinancing from an ARM to a fixed-rate loan is possible, subject to qualification at the time of refinance. The decision to refinance depends on the rate environment, your remaining loan balance, and your goals at that time. There is no guarantee refinancing will be available or beneficial.
What index does the ARM rate adjust to?
Most modern ARMs use the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) as the index, plus a margin set by the lender. The rate at each adjustment is the index plus the margin, subject to the applicable caps. Specific index terms are disclosed in the loan documents.
Should I choose an ARM or a fixed-rate loan?
The answer depends on your specific situation. ARMs may be beneficial for borrowers with shorter time horizons, and fixed-rate loans may be better for those seeking long-term payment predictability. A loan advisor can help you model both structures based on your profile and goals.
General information only. Not financial, legal, or tax advice. ARM rates change after the initial period and are subject to index movement and rate caps. Consult a licensed loan advisor before making a loan structure decision.
Compare ARM and fixed-rate options
Compare ARM and fixed-rate options with a dedicated advisor.
A Royal United loan advisor can model both structures based on your credit, timeline, and goals — so you can make the decision with a clear picture of both scenarios.