What causes an adjustable rate mortgage to adjust?
The interest rate of an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) is linked to a particular
index of economic conditions. An index frequently used by Blue Value
Enterprises, LLC is the six-month London Interbank
Offering Rate or LIBOR. This index is the average of interest rates charged by
major international banks to borrow U.S. dollars in the
The LIBOR index is officially fixed once each day, although
changes occur throughout the day. Changes in this index correspond to changes
in the interest rate of an adjustable rate loan. Because the interest rate of
an ARM is calculated by adding the index plus a "margin" (a pre-set,
fixed interest rate established by the lender), a change in the index value
will cause a change to the interest rate calculation. The number of times an
ARM loan will adjust each year, and the maximum amount it can change, varies
per loan. Borrowers are encouraged to consult their Blue Value Enterprises, LLC
Loan Advisor with any questions regarding the ARM loan adjustment process.