An ARM is a Risk—Even if You Think You'll Move Soon

"In 2007, when purchasing my first property, I anticipated owning the house for three to five years max. This led many mortgage brokers to say I should get an adjustable-rate mortgage or, ARM, since they had lower interest rates than fixed-rate loans, and besides, I'd be long gone before the interest rate on my ARM ballooned. I'm so glad I stuck to my guns about not wanting an ARM, no matter how enticing the low interest rate. Although I'd planned to move, the economy and life caused me to adjust my original plan and stay put in the house much longer than I thought." – Nerissa Marbury, Katy, TX