Cat Barnett · October 31, 2026

Fixed vs. adjustable: what's the difference

Mortgage Market Update

Cat Barnett

Cat Barnett

Saturday, October 31, 2026

Fixed vs. adjustable: what's the difference

When you're shopping for a mortgage, the interest rate gets all the attention. But the structure of your loan—how that rate works over time—matters just as much.

National Mortgage Rates · October 29, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.15%

FHA 30-Year

7.04%

VA 30-Year

6.79%

Rate trend

Source: Optimal Blue daily mortgage indices via FRED

Rates shown are national mortgage index rates and are provided for informational purposes only. Actual rates vary based on credit profile, loan amount, and market conditions. Please contact us for a personalized rate quote.

Check My Rate →

Loan Program Fit

Fixed or adjustable: which loan makes sense for you

One of the biggest choices you'll make is whether to lock in a fixed rate for the life of your loan or start with an adjustable rate that changes over time. Fixed-rate mortgages offer predictability and peace of mind—your payment stays the same month after month. Adjustable-rate loans often start lower, which can mean a smaller initial payment, but they carry risk if rates move higher down the road. The right choice depends on how long you plan to stay in your home, your comfort with payment uncertainty, and what your financial picture looks like. There's no universally "better" answer, but there is a better answer for you. Let's talk through your situation and help you pick the loan type that actually fits your goals.

If you'd like to explore which mortgage structure makes the most sense for your circumstances, I'm here to walk you through it.

Tip of the Week

Refinancing resets your amortization clock. If you're 10 years into a 30-year loan, consider a shorter term to avoid paying more total interest.

Tips for Homeowners

Co-Signing a Mortgage: What You're Really Agreeing To

1.

Co-signing makes you equally responsible for the debt. If the primary borrower misses payments, your credit score takes the same hit and the lender can pursue you for the full balance.

2.

The co-signed mortgage debt appears on your credit report and counts toward your DTI. This can limit your ability to qualify for your own financing until the loan is paid off or refinanced out of your name.

3.

There's no automatic way to remove yourself as a co-signer — the primary borrower must refinance the loan in their name alone. Get this understanding in writing before you sign.

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Cat Barnett team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

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Your Mortgage Advisor

Cat Barnett

Cat Barnett

Cat Barnett

Team@LoanFIT.us

(720) 300-6777

(720) 300-6777  |  www.LoanFIT.us

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