When it comes to obtaining a mortgage, borrowers have a variety of options to choose from. Three common types of mortgages are no doc loans, bridge loans, and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs). While these loans share some similarities, they also have significant differences in their terms and requirements.
No Doc Loans:
A no doc loan, also known as a stated income or low doc loan, is a type of mortgage that requires little or no documentation of the borrower`s income or assets. This type of loan was popular in the early 2000s and contributed to the subprime mortgage crisis. Today, no doc loans are much less common, but they can still be an option for borrowers with irregular income who may have difficulty providing extensive documentation. With a no doc loan, the borrower is able to simply state their income without providing extensive documentation. While no doc loans can be easier to obtain, they often come with higher interest rates and fees than traditional mortgages, and borrowers may be required to provide additional documentation or higher down payments. 5/1 ARM are of great benefit for investors to build up their portfolio.
Bridge Loans:
A bridge loan is a short-term loan that is used to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing property. This type of loan is often used in situations where a borrower needs to purchase a new property before their existing property has sold. Bridge loans are typically secured by the borrower`s existing property and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as funding the down payment on a new property or covering temporary expenses until the sale of the existing property is completed. Bridge loans often have higher interest rates and fees than traditional mortgages and may require a significant down payment.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs):
An adjustable-rate mortgage, or ARM, is a type of mortgage where the interest rate can fluctuate over time based on market conditions. ARMs typically have a fixed interest rate for a period of time, often 5 or 7 years, and then the rate adjusts annually based on a specified index. ARMs can be beneficial for borrowers who plan on living in the home for a short period or expect their income to increase over time. However, ARMs can also be risky if interest rates rise significantly, as the borrower`s monthly payment can increase significantly over time.
In summary, no doc loans, bridge loans, and ARMs are all types of mortgages that can be used for different purposes. No doc loans may be easier to obtain for borrowers with irregular income, but they come with higher interest rates and fees. Bridge loans are used to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing property, but they often come with higher interest rates and fees as well. ARMs can be beneficial for borrowers who plan on living in the home for a short period or expect their income to increase over time, but they can also be risky if interest rates rise significantly. Borrowers should carefully consider their options and work with a trusted lender to determine the best mortgage option for their specific needs and circumstances.