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Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)

Feature lower interest rate and payments for a fixed period at the beginning of the loan term.

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  2. Mortgages
  3. Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)
Adjustable Rate Mortgage Purchase Interest Rate  APR  Points  Initial Monthly Payment Maximum Monthly Payment
5/5 ARM 30 Year 2.625% 2.703% 0.0
Months 1-60
$602.00
Months 61-360
$992.00
7/6 ARM 30 Year 2.625% 2.952% –
Months 1-84
$602.00
Months 85-360
$960.00

Adjustable Rates effective as of January 22, 2021. Note that the interest rates and annual percentage rates (APRs) shown here are available to borrowers with credit scores 740 or greater and 60% Loan-to-Value (LTV) and are based on loans secured by property in the state of Indiana. The actual interest rates and APRs available to you may vary based on your credit score, LTV ratio and other factors, and may be higher than those displayed here. Rates, closing costs and points may vary by property location, loan type and borrower credit and income characteristics. ALL FINANCING SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL. Example Monthly Payments based on a purchase price of $250,000, FICO® score of 740 or greater, 40% or more down payment, and loan amount of $150,000; they do not include amounts for taxes and insurance premiums, if applicable, and the actual payment obligation may be higher. Rates are subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Please call for rate information about ARM products with terms other than those listed.

The 5/5 ARM product listed above is a 30-year loan where the initial interest rate is fixed for the first 5 years (60 payments). After the initial five-year period, it is possible that the interest rate, APR, and payment may increase substantially over the remaining term of the loan. After the initial five-year period, your interest rate can increase or decrease every 5 years up to the 15th year at which the interest rate can increase or decrease annually based on the average yield of the 5-year treasury, plus our margin (2.25%) rounded to the nearest 0.125%. Any change may significantly impact your monthly payment. The index in the future is unknown so the Estimated Monthly Payment for payments 61-360 is based on the current index plus the margin (fully indexed rate).

The 7/6 ARM product listed above is a 30-year loan where the initial interest rate is fixed for the first 7 years (84 payments). After the initial seven-year period, it is possible that the interest rate, APR, and payment may increase substantially over the remaining term of the loan. After the initial seven-year period, your interest rate can increase or decrease annually based on the average of interbank offered rates for one-year U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in the 30 Day SOFR yield plus our margin (3.00%) rounded to the nearest 0.125%. Any change may significantly impact your monthly payment. The index in the future is unknown so the Estimated Monthly Payment for payments 85-360 is based on the current index plus the margin (fully indexed rate).

Adjustable Rate Mortgage Refinance Interest Rate  APR  Points  Initial Monthly Payment Maximum Monthly Payment
5/5 ARM 30 Year 2.875% 2.705% 0.0
Months 1-60
$622.00
Months 61-360
$1,093.00
7/6 ARM 30 Year 2.875% 3.066% –
Months 1-84
$622.00
Months 85-360
$1,001.00

Adjustable Rates effective as of January 22, 2021. Note that the interest rates and annual percentage rates (APRs) shown here are available to borrowers with credit scores 740 or greater and 60% Loan-to-Value (LTV) and are based on loans secured by property in the state of Indiana. The actual interest rates and APRs available to you may vary based on your credit score, LTV ratio and other factors, and may be higher than those displayed here. Rates, closing costs and points may vary by property location, loan type and borrower credit and income characteristics. ALL FINANCING SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL. Example Monthly Payments based on a purchase price of $250,000, FICO® score of 740 or greater, 40% or more down payment, and loan amount of $150,000; they do not include amounts for taxes and insurance premiums, if applicable, and the actual payment obligation may be higher. Rates are subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Please call for rate information about ARM products with terms other than those listed.

The 5/5 ARM product listed above is a 30-year loan where the initial interest rate is fixed for the first 5 years (60 payments). After the initial five-year period, it is possible that the interest rate, APR, and payment may increase substantially over the remaining term of the loan. After the initial five-year period, your interest rate can increase or decrease every 5 years up to the 15th year at which the interest rate can increase or decrease annually based on the average yield of the 5-year treasury, plus our margin (2.25%) rounded to the nearest 0.125%. Any change may significantly impact your monthly payment. The index in the future is unknown so the Estimated Monthly Payment for payments 61-360 is based on the current index plus the margin (fully indexed rate).

The 7/6 ARM product listed above is a 30-year loan where the initial interest rate is fixed for the first 7 years (84 payments). After the initial seven-year period, it is possible that the interest rate, APR, and payment may increase substantially over the remaining term of the loan. After the initial seven-year period, your interest rate can increase or decrease annually based on the average of interbank offered rates for one-year U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in the 30 Day SOFR yield plus our margin (3.00%) rounded to the nearest 0.125%. Any change may significantly impact your monthly payment. The index in the future is unknown so the Estimated Monthly Payment for payments 85-360 is based on the current index plus the margin (fully indexed rate).

Questions?

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Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)

A good choice when buying a home for the short term.

KEY FEATURES

  • Lower payments at the start of the loan
  • Lowest short-term rates
  • A possibility of lower interest rates in the future
  • Available in 3/1, 5/1, 10/1 ARM terms with 30-year amortization terms, as well as 5/5 30-year and 5/5 15-year terms
  • Down payment as low as 10% of purchase price (as low as 5% of purchase price for First Time Homebuyers!)
  • Can be used for home purchase or mortgage refinance
  • Low fees and closing costs
  • Financing available for primary residences, second homes, and investment (rental) properties
  • Apply in 15-20 minutes!

Calculate Your Payment 

MAY BE A GOOD CHOICE IF

  • You are comfortable with rate and payments fixed at first, then adjusting later
  • You don’t plan to stay in your home for long
  • Trade-off: After the set rate period is over, the interest rate can increase depending on market conditions

Compare to Other Mortgages

So, what exactly is an Adjustable Rate Mortgage?

As its name suggests, an Adjustable rate Mortgage (ARM) does not have a fixed rate for the life of the loan. Instead, there is a lower introductory interest rate that will change after a certain number of years that you set when getting the loan. Depending on market conditions at the end of the initial time period, your interest rate could increase or decrease, meaning your monthly payment will go one or the other. If you don’t plan to stay in this home too long or you plan to pay off the loan within about 10 years, an ARM can be a good choice for you.

Wondering about how to read the term options? Learn more.

ARMs have caps to place limits on when and how drastically your interest rate can change. Lenders with the same introductory rate might have different caps on the life of the loan. The initial cap determines how much the interest rate can change during your first adjustment period. The subsequent cap, also known as the periodic or annual cap, controls how much the rate can change in future adjustments. There is also a lifetime cap that says what the total interest rate increase can be for the life of the loan. Finally, the payment cap represents the total increase that is allowed on your ARM payment.

If this seems like a lot to understand, never fear! We will give you personal guidance to make sure you understand the caps and guide you toward the best option for your current and future budget.

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How does an Adjustable Rate Mortgage compare to other mortgage options?

Take a look at this chart to compare the mortgage options. This can help you best match your situation

  Adjustable Rate Mortgage Fixed-Rate Mortgage First-Time Homebuyer Program Refinance Your Mortgage
  Apply Now Apply Now Apply Now Apply Now
Key Benefits

Lowest short-term rates

Initial lower monthly payments

Predictable payments

No interest-rate surprises

Low down payment

No mortgage insurance

Better rate or loan term
A Good Option If You

Are comfortable with rate and payments fixed at first, then adjusting later

Don't plan to stay in the home long

Want your rate and payments to stay same for life of loan

Plan to stay in your home for several years

Do not have a substantial down payment saved

Have not owned a house in the past three years

Want to reduce your monthly payment or shorten your loan term
Available Loan Terms

Purchase & Refinance:

3/1, 5/1, 10/1 ARM

5/5 30-years

5/5 15-years

Purchase & Refinance:

5, 7, 10, 15, 20, and 30 years

15, 20, and 30 year fixed

5/5 ARM

15, 20, and 30 year fixed

5/5 ARM

and more!
Interest Rate As Low As

Purchase: 2.625%

Refinance: 2.875%

Purchase:2.375%

Refinance: 2.625%

15 Year Fixed at 3%

Fixed-Rate: 2.625%

Adjustable Rate: 2.875%
APR As Low As

Purchase: 2.703%1

Refinance: 2.705%

Purchase: 2.518%2

Refinance: 2.769%

15 Year Fixed at 3%3

Fixed-Rate: 2.769%

Adjustable Rate: 2.705%
No Points
No Mortgage Insurance (PMI) — — —
Down Payment As low as 10% of purchase price As low as 20% of purchase price As low as 5% of purchase price As low as 10% of purchase price
Loan Limits — —

Up to $325,000

 —
Special Feature — — — —
  Apply Now Apply Now Apply Now Apply Now

What does 3/1, or 5/1 (etc.) ARM mean?

The first number (3, 5 ...) indicates the number of years your initial rate is in effect. 

The second number (1, 5) indicates how often the rate will adjust after that initial period. 

In other words, a 10/1 ARM will have the initial interest rate for ten years; after that, it will change annually (every 1 year).  Similarly, a 5/5 ARM will have the initial interest rate for five years and adjust every five years after that.

Adjustable rate mortgages are available in 3/1, 5/1, 10/1 ARM terms, as well as 5/5 30-year and 5/5 15-year terms.

Is refinancing available?

Yes! When you refinance your home, you actually pay off your existing mortgage and replace it with a new one. You might do this to get a lower interest rate or to shorten the term of your mortgage. You can learn more about refinancing your mortgage with Elements.

Adjustable Rate Mortgage Refinances Interest Rate  APR  Points  Initial Monthly Payment Maximum Monthly Payment
5/5 ARM 30 Year 2.875% 2.705% 0.0
Months 1-60
$622.00
Months 61-360
$1,093.00
7/6 ARM 30 Year 2.875% 3.066% –
Months 1-84
$622.00
Months 85-360
$1,001.00

Adjustable Rates effective as of January 22, 2021. Note that the interest rates and annual percentage rates (APRs) shown here are available to borrowers with credit scores 740 or greater and 60% Loan-to-Value (LTV) and are based on loans secured by property in the state of Indiana. The actual interest rates and APRs available to you may vary based on your credit score, LTV ratio and other factors, and may be higher than those displayed here. Rates, closing costs and points may vary by property location, loan type and borrower credit and income characteristics. ALL FINANCING SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL. Example Monthly Payments based on a purchase price of $250,000, FICO® score of 740 or greater, 40% or more down payment, and loan amount of $150,000; they do not include amounts for taxes and insurance premiums, if applicable, and the actual payment obligation may be higher. Rates are subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Please call for rate information about ARM products with terms other than those listed.

The 5/5 ARM product listed above is a 30-year loan where the initial interest rate is fixed for the first 5 years (60 payments). After the initial five-year period, it is possible that the interest rate, APR, and payment may increase substantially over the remaining term of the loan. After the initial five-year period, your interest rate can increase or decrease every 5 years up to the 15th year at which the interest rate can increase or decrease annually based on the average yield of the 5-year treasury, plus our margin (2.25%) rounded to the nearest 0.125%. Any change may significantly impact your monthly payment. The index in the future is unknown so the Estimated Monthly Payment for payments 61-360 is based on the current index plus the margin (fully indexed rate).

The 7/6 ARM product listed above is a 30-year loan where the initial interest rate is fixed for the first 7 years (84 payments). After the initial seven-year period, it is possible that the interest rate, APR, and payment may increase substantially over the remaining term of the loan. After the initial seven-year period, your interest rate can increase or decrease annually based on the average of interbank offered rates for one-year U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in the 30 Day SOFR yield plus our margin (3.00%) rounded to the nearest 0.125%. Any change may significantly impact your monthly payment. The index in the future is unknown so the Estimated Monthly Payment for payments 85-360 is based on the current index plus the margin (fully indexed rate).

What fees and closing costs should I expect?

The specific amount of your closing costs will vary. A home loan often involves many fees, such as the appraisal fee, title charges, closing fees, and state or local taxes. These fees vary from state to state and also from lender to lender. Your Elements Mortgage Loan Originator will review all costs with you based on your specific loan amount, purchase price, and home value.

Third Party Fees

Third party fees are ones that we collect and pass on to the person who actually performed the service.These can include the appraisal fee, the credit report fee, the settlement or closing fee, the survey fee, tax service fees, title insurance fees, flood certification fees, and courier/mailing fees. For example, an appraiser is paid the appraisal fee, a credit bureau is paid the credit report fee, and a title company or an attorney is paid the title insurance fees. 

Taxes and Other Unavoidable Costs

These fees include state/local taxes and recording fees and will most likely have to be paid regardless of the lender you choose. If some lenders don't quote you fees that include taxes and other unavoidable fees, don't assume you won't have to pay it. It is possible that a lender who doesn't tell you about the fee hasn't done the research necessary to provide accurate closing costs. 

Lender Fees

Lender fees such as points, document-preparation fees, and loan-processing fees are retained by the lender and are used to provide you with the lowest rates possible. This is the category of fees that you should compare very closely from lender to lender before making a decision. Elements charges a standard $900 origination fee on all mortgages.

For more information, call us at 1-800-561-9433.

Should I get preapproved before buying a home?

Call us at 1-800-561-9433 to see if you can be pre-approved for a loan so that you know what price range you can afford, to evaluate the monthly costs of a mortgage, and to see how much of a loan you can afford. The pre-approval will also give you some leverage when negotiating with the sellers.

Get Preapproved

Does Elements have a special program for first-time homebuyers?

Yes! Our First-Time Homebuyer Program allows you to purchase a new home with as little as 5% down with no Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). The loans can be up to $325,000, and it’s okay if your down payment was gifted to you. We will also be there to give you guidance at each step through the process.

We also have other programs that are available with even lower down payment terms such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans. For more information, call us at 1-800-561-9433.

How is my mortgage payment calculated?

Your monthly mortgage payment is made up of four components: principal, interest, property taxes, and homeowner’s insurance (referred to as "PITI"). 

Principal and Interest

Principal and interest are based on the loan amount, interest rate, and term (amortization) of your loan. 

Property Taxes

Property taxes are assessed annually. The amount of your taxes is divided by 12 months in order to determine how much will be collected from you as part of your monthly payment.

Insurance

Homeowner’s Insurance is also paid annually. The amount of your annual premium is divided by 12 months as well. 

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) can also be a component of your monthly mortgage payment. This is insurance that the lender obtains to protect them against any loss if you stop making payments on your loan. PMI is typically required on Conventional loans if you do not put at least 20% down on a purchase or have 20% or more equity in your property on a refinance.

What happens during the mortgage application process?

Getting Started

You can apply online in 15-20 minutes! Submit your application anytime. Or call us at 1-800-561-9433 to apply by phone. When you apply, have ready your government-issued ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport) and estimates of your household income, assets, home value and price you paid for your home. 

Gathering Documentation

We’ll contact you within one business day after you submit your application to review documentation that we'll need from you. We’ll also answer any questions you may have. 

Application Review & Approval 

Once you have supplied your documents, your loan will be reviewed by an underwriter. After the underwriter review, your Elements Mortgage Loan Originator and Loan Processor will work together to obtain any further documentation that is needed to close your loan, including the appraisal and title work. 

Closing

Once your loan has received final approval, your closing will be scheduled at a location convenient for you. That's it — your mortgage is complete! Application to closing takes an average of 30 days. 

Get Started

Why should I go to Elements for my mortgage?

Indy's #1 Financial Institution for Conventional Mortgages

Like a Bank, Only Better!

Personal Mortgage Guidance

Buying a home can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry. We’ll be with you every step of the way to guide you through the mortgage process, from pre-approval all the way to closing. You’ll have your personal mortgage expert’s cell phone number, so you can get all your questions answered very quickly. 

Better Rates. Fewer Fees.

Because we’re a credit union, we return profits to members in the form of reduced fees, higher savings rates and lower loan rates.

Trusted Advice. Fresh Approach.

We pride ourselves in being a trusted source for financial education. We come to your workplace to answer questions and can provide you with a dedicated Mortgage Loan Originator4 to guide you through the entire mortgage process.

Respected Locally. Accessed Globally.

Headquartered in Indianapolis since 1930, we rank among the top 3% of credit unions nationally5. We serve members in all 50 states and 50+ countries. You’ll have access to 5,000+ shared branches nationwide and 78,000+ surcharge-free ATMs globally.

High Tech. Human Touch.

Our technology makes banking with Elements easy. From quick digital applications to online and mobile banking, we’ll be by your side wherever you go. We’re here for you with member service available 24/7 and live chat during the workday.

Get Started

How do I apply?

3 Easy Steps to Apply

  1. Apply online - Do this online whenever you have 15-20 minutes to spare. Or call 1-800-561-9433 to get started.
  2. Take our call - We'll contact you within one business day after you submit your application to go over what documentation we'll need and to answer your questions.
  3. Schedule your closing - We'll stay in touch with you throughout the mortgage process. Then, if you're approved, we'll schedule your closing at a location convenient for you.

Apply Now Get Preapproved

Great rates and amazing service! I am so glad I financed my mortgage through Elements. The application and entire process was so easy!

- Sandy M. | Member since 2010

How Will an Adjustable Rate Affect My Mortgage Payments?

Adjustable Rate Mortgage Calculator

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  1. 1 Adjustable Rates effective as of January 22, 2021. Note that the interest rates and annual percentage rates (APRs) shown here are available to borrowers with credit scores 740 or greater and 60% Loan-to-Value (LTV) and are based on loans secured by property in the state of Indiana. The actual interest rates and APRs available to you may vary based on your credit score, LTV ratio and other factors, and may be higher than those displayed here. Rates, closing costs and points may vary by property location, loan type and borrower credit and income characteristics. ALL FINANCING SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL. Example Monthly Payments based on a purchase price of $250,000, FICO® score of 740 or greater, 40% or more down payment, and loan amount of $150,000; they do not include amounts for taxes and insurance premiums, if applicable, and the actual payment obligation may be higher. Rates are subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Please call for rate information about ARM products with terms other than those listed.
  2. 2 Fixed Rates effective as of January 22, 2021. Note that the interest rates and annual percentage rates (APRs) shown here are available to borrowers with credit scores 740 or greater and 60% Loan-to-Value (LTV) and are based on loans secured by property in the state of Indiana. The actual interest rates and APRs available to you may vary based on your credit score, LTV ratio and other factors, and may be higher than those displayed here. Rates, closing costs and points may vary by property location, loan type and borrower credit and income characteristics. ALL FINANCING SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL. Example Monthly Payments based on a purchase price of $250,000, FICO® score of 740 or greater, 40% or more down payment, and loan amount of $150,000; they do not include amounts for taxes and insurance premiums, if applicable, and the actual payment obligation may be higher. Rates are subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Please call for rate information about mortgage products with terms other than those listed.
  3. 3 First Time Homebuyer Rates effective as of January 22, 2021. Note that the interest rates and annual percentage rates (APRs) shown here are available to borrowers with credit scores 740 or greater and 95% Loan-to-Value (LTV) and are based on loans secured by property in the state of Indiana. The actual interest rates and APRs available to you may vary based on your credit score, LTV ratio and other factors, and may be higher than those displayed here. Rates, closing costs and points may vary by property location, loan type and borrower credit and income characteristics. ALL FINANCING SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL. Example Monthly Payments based on purchase price of $250,000, FICO® score of 740 or greater, 5% or more down payment, and loan amount of $237,500; they do not include amounts for taxes and insurance premiums, if applicable, and the actual payment obligation may be higher. Rates are subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Please call for rate information about mortgage products with terms other than those listed.
  4. 4 Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System Registrants: Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System Registrants: Elements Financial FCU 410639, Shawn Adams 1969445, Charles Akinbola 1811812, Barbara L Allen 609733, Luis Aparicio 144043, Lindsey Badanek 724103, Cynthia Bell 427359, Nyla Bivens 1128100, Cassandra Bogaards 894545, Jamie Bonner 435395, Laura Bordenkecher 1590841, April Bratton 1169913, Dawn Michelle Bruce 899516, Julie Bowering 443400, Tracee Buckrop 609727, Karla Chevrie 404630, Eliza Claborn 1826115, Christine Clark 609734, Tayjah Coyle 2082021, Mary Ann Deckard 1259646, Heather Derbyshire 483140, Ashlie M Dew 539208, Curtis Neal Dodd 200259, Ron E Ellis Jr 1207645, Barbara Fey 489638, Kara Michelle Fischer 1469113, Tami Renee Forsythe 609730, Lenore Gallagher 975065, Sherry Gaw 988244, Emilee Goode 1776621, Robert Goodwin 975067, Quentin Girten 1919653, Abigail Hall 1469114, Mariah Hestand 1809685, Dial Holliday 1436039, Jennifer Hooker 1807696, Theresa Iaria 1128103, Kasey Jones 1942020, Christoper Kerr 143199, Andee Kettlebar 443776, Jill Kidwell 609731, Michele King 1759144, Sara Keedy 1512646, Sean Kiely 425511, Tara Nicole Lambert 883082, Teresa Ledford 444283, Cindy Leisure 1080329, Rebecca Littell 996455, Kristy Mars 609725, Beverly Marshall 444941, Stacey McDaniel 1157444, Alexander J Menestrina 1190426, Beth Moberg 473454, Justin D Montour 1198316, Brooke Moss 1824059, Terri Mossbrucker 1385461, Kristina Mowery 916118, Amber D Murphy 1082684, Mallory Neill 1750269, Constance Nelson 975071, Micha Noble 1950136, Grace Nolan 1840818, Regina Norman 1080327, Shaneka A Pedersen 426201, Meghan Pedigo 1601304, Janene Petree 1529353, Kyle Thomas Plumlee 1930758, Kim Purkhiser 1313210, Tania Query 608383, Rebecca Rice 1007612, Miranda Grace Renee Rizzo 1198315, Janai S Roberts 252636, Susan Roberts 975068, Carol Biale-Schroeder 1863399, Ryan Sebree 1866273, Ron Senci 1068152, Brad Smith 906855, Amy Lynn Stokes 1387213, Brent Tedford 1892880, Bradley Thompson 609732, Samantha White 1849420
  5. 5 Based on asset size as of 1/31/2020