A 30 year fixed-rate mortgage hasn't always been the standard. As part of
FDR's New Deal in 1934, the Federal Housing Administration was created to help
Americans purchase homes with affordable terms.
Prior to then, many loans had an amount due at the end of the term called a
balloon. Most mortgages had adjustable interest rates even though some might be
fixed for a short time. While banks would loan money on a home, they retained
the right to call the note due at any time which could exert considerable stress
on borrowers.
FHA, during this time, introduced mortgages that offered a fixed rate of
interest to the borrower for a 30 year term. This fully amortized loan provided
borrowers a financial vehicle that would help them achieve the American Dream
while minimizing the risk of having a loan called without the resources to pay
it off. It brought long-term stability to the housing market and helped
stimulate the economic recovery at a very difficult time in our nation's
history.
Roughly, a third of the mortgages created in 2011 were less than 30 year
terms. Many homeowners, similar to those after the Great Depression, would like
to get their home paid for as soon as possible. Shorter term mortgages typically
have a lower interest rate but higher payments due to fewer years to amortize
the mortgage.
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