A Guide To Mortgage Loan Rates
Articles - Mortgage
A mortgage is a loan that uses a parcel of real estate as collateral. A mortgage loan rate is the interest rate charged on a mortgage. Mortgages are classified into two types: residential mortgages and commercial mortgages. In case of a residential mortgage, the self-occupied residential property of a borrower is then provided as collateral.
by JohnBear


A mortgage is a loan that uses a parcel of real estate as collateral. A mortgage loan rate is the interest rate charged on a mortgage. Mortgages are classified into two types: residential mortgages and commercial mortgages. In case of a residential mortgage, the self-occupied residential property of a borrower is then provided as collateral.

A commercial mortgage, on the other hand, is a loan for which real estate other than a residential property occupied by the borrower is provided as collateral to secure payment of the principal and interest or just the interest. Usually, in the case of commercial mortgages, the collateral is an office, commercial building, store or other business real estate.

These mortgages are typically made by businesses that require the money for working capital, purchasing new equipment, or even an expansion. And because a business may be formulated as a partnership, or a limited liability firm, the assessment of creditworthiness of a business by a financial institution is more complex.

Mortgage loan rates for a residential mortgage actually differ from the commercial mortgage, as rates are usually higher for the commercial ones. It is because the risk that is associated with residential mortgages, and the default percentage is lower, compared to commercial mortgages.

Mortgages may also be classified as fixed rate mortgages and adjustable rate mortgages. Both fixed rate as well as adjustable rate mortgages can be obtained for residential and commercial mortgages. The initial interest rate of an adjustable rate mortgage is lower than the interest rate for a fixed rate mortgage.

Since mortgage loan rates are primarily governed by the Federal Reserve Board, and so if the board decides to change the interest rates, the mortgage lenders must adjust their interest rates accordingly. The rates are also influenced by many economic and market factors such as inflation.

Generally, lower rates can be availed if you pay a 20% down payment or more of the loan amount. On the other hand, if you pay a down payment of 5% or less of the loan amount, you may only have to qualify for a higher interest loan.

Mortgage loan rates generally fall somewhere between 5% and 13%. Long term loans have slightly higher interest rates than short-term loans and usually the difference is below 1%. Loan rates also differ with mortgage loan types such as commercial loans, VA loans, FHA loans, home equity loans, home improvement loans, and bad credit/sub prime mortgage loans.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.