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Here is a tip for those who are shopping for Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs): the "margin" is almost as important as the initial rate. The margin is the percentage point above the average yields for Treasury notes on which future rate adjustments will be calculated.

Let's compare two hypothetical one-year ARMs. The first may have an initial interest rate of 7% with a 2.5 margin, while the second begins at 6 7/8% with a 2.75 margin. Both loans have rate caps of 2%. Suppose that at the end of the first year of the loan, the average of the one-year Treasury note yield has been 5 1/2%. For each loan, the lenders will add the margin to that 5 1/2% average yield. Thus the interest rate for first loan would increase from 7% to 8%, and the second would go from 6 7/8% to 8 1/4%. While the first ARM had a slightly higher initial rate, it will have lower rates in subsequent years, unless the Treasury note rates increase enough to activate the annual caps on the amount of the increase. There is a wide variance among margins in ARMs offered by competing lenders, and this should be a factor when you decide on your loan.

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The Sue Martin Team
Coldwell Banker Gundaker
516 Old Smizer Mill Road
Fenton, MO 63026
Cell: 636-795-3400
Office: 636-717-6000
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Sue@SueMartinTeam.com

Sue Martin and her Home Selling Team is the Fenton area's #1 full-service Realtor whose business success is based on a results-oriented team approach. This dedication to service has resulted in The Sue Martin Team being ranked by St. Louis Business Journal and St. Louis Magazine as one of Metro St. Louis' top Realtors. Sue and her team of professional agents are focused on providing quality services to facilitate home buyers and sellers in achieving their real estate goals through exceptional customer service, track record and experience, and results-based systems. Referrals and recommendations from past clients and customers are a testimony to the team’s commitment, high performance standards and results. Call Sue Today ... and Start Packing!!