Smart Borrower Articles

1. How to lower your interest rate

Shopping for a loan that meets your needs is only part of the interest rate equation.

2. Is now the time to refinance your ARM?

If the interest rate on your ARM is due to adjust soon, you should consider whether it makes sense to get a new loan.

3. Refinancing can protect you from rising interest rates

Concerned that rising interest rates will make your monthly ARM payments hard to handle? Consider mortgage refinancing.

4. Mortgage lock-ins

5. Adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) indexes

When choosing an ARM, it's important to consider its index in order to help protect yourself from interest rate fluctuations.

6. Rate caps can curtail ARM payment shocks

Adjustable-rate mortgages come with special rules that limit how much your payment can increase.

7. How interest rates affect your credit

Consider interest rate trends when financing or refinancing a home, car, or credit card balance.

8. When to choose a fixed-rate mortgage

Sometimes the security and stability of a fixed-rate mortgage can make it the best choice for your needs.

9. Interest rate versus APR

Don’t compare loan offers based on interest rate alone. Consider their annual percentage rate (APR).

10. Finding a mortgage that fits your life

There’s a loan to fit most any situation. Use our tips to help you find the one that’s right for you.