Monthly Archives: January 2023

Interest Rates - How They Affect Your Mortgage

Interest Rates: How They Affect Your Mortgage Loans 

It’s no secret house hunters have faced the grim reality of rising interest rates. Rising mortgage rates result in rising costs of buying a home. In this blog, we will outline how current interest rates are affecting mortgage loans, as well as outline the main differences between a fixed-rate mortgage and an adjustable-rate mortgage loan.  

What is a Fixed-Rate Mortgage  

A fixed-rate mortgage is a home loan in which the interest rate remains the same over the lifetime of the loan. Fixed-rate mortgages are the most popular form of mortgages in the U.S. Compared to ARMs, many find the initial introductory rate on an ARM may be lower than those on a fixed-rate mortgage, but with an ARM you may find it to be more expensive over the life of the loan. The two most prevalent types of fixed-rate mortgages are the 15-year fixed-rate mortgage, where the loan lasts 15 years or the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, where the loan is paid off after 30 years.  

What is an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) 

An adjustable-rate mortgage or ARM is a home loan where, like the name, the interest rate can change over time. An ARM differs from a fixed rate mortgage where the rate stays the same for the life of the loan.  The interest rate on an ARM is fixed for an initial period where it will not change. When the fixed period ends, the rate will fluctuate with limits based on the current market rates. A true ARM will have a fixed interest rate for just one year.  

Common Types of Adjustable-Rate Mortgages 

  • 1-year ARM: The initial rate is fixed for 1 year, after which the rate can be adjusted once a year. 
  • 3/1 hybrid ARM: The initial rate is fixed for the first 3 years, after which the rate can be adjusted once a year. 
  • 5/1 hybrid ARM: The initial rate is fixed for 5 years, after which the rate can be adjusted once a year. 

How Interest Rates Affect Your Monthly Mortgage Payment 

Your mortgage interest rate is very important to understand when utilizing a mortgage loan as it directly impacts your monthly payment, as well as your loan’s total cost over the life span of the loan. Dependent on the interest rate and your loan term, your monthly payment could be more than you expected to be spending. A 1.5% percentage point jump may not seem like a whole lot. Keep reading as we walk you through some examples.  

Fixed-Rate Mortgage Loan Example:  

For example, if you have a 30-year fixed loan at the amount of $300,000 with 3.5% interest, your monthly payment will be $1,347.00. Keeping the loan and interest amounts the same but with a 15-year fixed loan term, your monthly payment would be $2,145.00.  

If the interest rate were to be 5% on a $300,000 30-year fixed loan, your monthly payment would be $1,610.00. With a 15-year fixed loan your monthly payment would be $2,372.00.  

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage Loan Example:  

If you were to get a 5/1 ARM on a $250,000 loan amount, with an initial interest rate of 3.5% and with 2/2/5 caps your initial payment would be $1,122.61. Compared to a fixed rate, for the first five years you’d be saving $70.93 per month. In the sixth year, your ARM interest rate will rise to $1,377.05. In the seventh year, with a 7.5% interest rate your payment would be $1,648.71. Finally if the rates continue to rise your eighth year could be $1,788.81.  

As you can see from the examples above it is very important to look at your options when choosing to buy a house utilizing a mortgage loan. High interests’ rates can make a home you’d think you could typically afford out of your budget due to extra costs tacked on through your interest rate. As you can see it is also extremely important to go through your loan term options. The loan you choose to go with can make or break you home buying situation. If you have questions about our loan options, visit our website or stop in to speak with one of our experience local mortgage lenders. 

Peoples Bank & Trust Co.  

Member FDIC  

Equal Housing Lender  

NMLS #407724 

Home Renovation and Remodeling Trends

2023 Home Renovation and Remodeling Trends 

Home renovations and remodels can be a great way to increase your home’s value if you are looking to sell or simply make your house your dream home. Tailoring your home with these renovation and remodeling trends can help align modern trends and your style preferences. Keep reading to learn the top renovation and remodel trends for 2023 to inspire ideas that may appeal to you.  

Renovation vs. Remodel?  

Many do not know the true difference between the words renovation and remodel, most typically use the two interchangeably. When speaking with a contractor or mortgage lender it is important to understand the difference between the two terms.  

Deciding Which Trend is Worth the Spend 

Each year the trends for renovations and remodeling change, so at the end of the day it is really up to you and what you want for the space. If you are looking to sell in the next year, it may be worth looking into current trends, as well as what will best fit your home and the layout to amplify space, functionality, and cohesively make the space look more modern.  

Trends tend to stay in the most used areas of the home as those are the areas we tend to want to dress up since we use them most. If you are looking to stay in your home for the next few years, don’t be completely phased by current trend. Instead take bits and pieces to make for the best renovation or remodel that you can to enjoy while you are there, but also add to the value of your home when and if you choose to ever sell.  

  1. Spa Bathroom 

The spa bathroom has been a trending project many have upgraded to. This is a space we use daily, so whether you’re using it to unwind after a long day or to start your day off in a calming environment – the spa bathroom is a great trend to follow! 

The best part about this trend is it could be a renovation or a remodel depending on what you want and the space you are working with. A larger bathroom allows for a larger shower and or bath, as well as more built-in shelves or cabinets for storage. 

  1. Large Windows 

At some point we all have to replace windows, especially if you have a fixer upper or an older home. Everyone can appreciate natural light in their home. Large windows with banks are a huge trend for 2023. Some window trends can range from large windows on multiple walls, floor to ceiling window wall, and glass framed doors to an outdoor space. Natural light has the power to make your space feel larger and with large windows it can add a simple elegance. This is a trend that could also save you money with UV blocking window technologies and lower lighting needs.  

  1. Built-In Storage 

If you are looking to renovate or remodel, it is well worth it to consider adding more built-in storage. Even for those who are more on the minimalistic side, storage is always useful and will never go out of style. This trend helps maintain organization while making your home feel and look pulled together. If you are wondering where to add storage, really anywhere. Think about adding cubbies to your mudroom, places in your bathroom to wrangle cords, products, accessories, and such.  

The thing with built-in-storage it can be completely hidden or more of an open look which is a huge trend. This is a great way to give your walls use and have storage to not feel as though your items do not have a place.  

  1. Accent Wallpaper  

This trend is great for a renovation project and can completely transform your space on a budget. Like many things, wallpaper has made its comeback. Many interior design trendsetters have brought back bold wallpaper to catch the eye, add texture, and completely take the space in a new and modern direction.  

Wallpaper can work in any room and doesn’t have to be on every wall. Wallpaper is a great option if you need an easy and less time-consuming option than painting. This is a great option to add personality to any space, from the kids’ room to the bathroom wallpaper is a hit and can easily be removed if you ever get tired of it.  

  1. Multifunctional Space  

For the most part we can all agree the last few years have shown us having areas of multi-functional space for work, school, personal, etc. can be more important than wasted space. Multifunctional rooms have only become more and more popular and are a huge trend as we enter 2023.  

Not only does a multi-functional space have to work for your day-time endeavors’, but to allow for relaxation and unwinding too. Furniture can play a huge role in making your space multifunctional, such as couches in offices or extra seating in the kitchen making your space always ready for hosting, family, and extra space for you to use all-areas of your home.  

Here are some ideas to implement into your multi-functional space:  

  • Islands: Islands can double as extra seating, a dining table, workspace, really anything you need! 
  • Bedroom/Office: A bedroom can be wasted space if not always used, pair this with an office or a pull-out couch to make this room stylish and functional.  
  • Functional Mudroom: We all need a “drop zone” to transition from outdoors to being home. This is a great option to help reduce clutter yet be functional for your lifestyle.  
  • Laundry Room: Laundry is a task we all complete, make this space organized and useful for you and your family’s lifestyle. You may even pair this with your mudroom. 

Use these trends as some motivation as you look into options to maximize your space as you go through a remodel or renovation. Keep in mind all projects should always work for your unique lifestyle, budget, and style. Yes, there are trends that are more valuable when it comes time to sell your home, but make sure you are making yourself a happy homeowner making the space what you want – most likely a buyer will look past a non-functional option anyway! 

Peoples Bank & Trust Co.  

Member FDIC  

Equal Housing Lender  

The Ultimate Guide to a Roth IRA

The Ultimate Guide to a Roth IRA 

If you’re looking to supplement your 401k offered by your employer or you currently do not have an option for a retirement savings account, a Roth IRA could be the savings option for you. Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of a Roth IRAs so you can decide if Roth IRA is the right option for you! 

What is a Roth IRA?  

Planning for retirement is super important. Whether you’re looking to get started or wanting to incorporate another savings option, a Roth IRA can be a fantastic option for retirement savings. What is a Roth IRA? It is important to understand when it comes to IRA accounts your options are Traditional or Roth. A Roth IRA is an individual retirement account where your money invested has already been taxed. A Traditional or Roth IRA are accounts you open on your own and are not affiliated with an employer.  

The most unique feature of a Roth IRA is how the government taxes it. Unlike a traditional 401(k) or a Traditional IRA, your contributions going in is taxed at that time rather than your earnings when you choose to withdraw them. 

Top Benefits of a Roth IRA 

  1. Tax-Free Income When You Retire 

As we have mentioned, you are paying taxes upfront with a Roth IRA. There could be a chance you are taxed at a lower tax bracket during that time so when you are a retiree you will essentially be avoiding taxes as you take out those funds. 

  1. Great Option If You Don’t Have a 401(k) 

If you don’t have a 401(k) through your employer, as long as you have earned income, you can contribute to a Roth IRA as your saving plan for retirement. 

  1. You Do Not Have to Take Money Out of a Roth IRA 

With a 401(k) or a Traditional IRA, you are required to take out a certain amount once you reach age 72 – this is known as a required minimum distribution (RMD). With a Roth IRA you will not run into this as it has not RMDs, though when you die your account beneficiary may have to take them. 

  1. Roth IRA Contributions Can Be Withdrawn at Any Time 

Since you’ve already paid taxes on your Roth IRA you can withdraw the funds you contributed at any time tax-free as long as you have had a Roth IRA for 5 years. Keep in mind if you withdraw earnings before age 59 ½, you may be penalized by the IRS. 

  1. You May Use a Roth IRA for Certain Life Expenses 

With a Roth IRA you are able to use your contributions for a first-time home purchase. You can withdraw up to $10,000 ($20,000 for married couples) from your Roth IRA penalty free to pay for your first-home purchase. Another life expense you can use your Roth IRA contributions on is to pay for college or higher education for yourself, a child, or even a spouse. You will be able to withdraw penalty free though you will still owe income taxes if earnings are included. 

  1. There Are No Age Limits to a Roth IRA 

With a Traditional IRA you can’t make contributions until age 72, with a Roth IRA there is no age limit for contributing. In 2023, with a Roth IRA you can only contribute $6,500 under the age of 50. The limit goes up to $7,500 once you are 50 or older.  

If you’ve decided a Roth IRA is the option for you or have further questions, we would be happy to help! Contact us today to learn more about our retirement savings options to get you started! 

Peoples Bank & Trust Co.  

Member FDIC  

Equal Housing Lender  

The Spender's Guide to Saving Money in 2023

The Spender’s Guide to Saving Money in 2023 

For those who love to spend money or often find it hard to restrain their purchases – this blog is meant for you to start 2023 off with smart saving habits. Spending money is most definitely easier than saving. Here are some tips to rein in on spending as well as save when spending. Keep reading to learn the spender’s guide to saving money in 2023.  

Step 1: Automate Your Paychecks  

Automating your paychecks is an easy way to save your money and hold yourself accountable to your budget. Distributing your paycheck each time will send a percentage of your money (up to you the percentage you set) directly into your designated account. Doing this allows you to allocate funds towards your savings, emergency fund, checking account, budget for bills, etc. It is important to set aside money for your fixed expenses as well as money used for coffee outings, gas, occasional splurges and such.  

Need a savings or checking account – we can help!  

Step 2: Utilize Autopay 

Along with automating your paycheck, it can also be a tip for budgeting and saving by utilizing autopay. Some companies even offer discounts simply for using automated payments. Companies such as internet providers, cellular businesses, and television networks will offer similar discounts. Look into this option to not only keep you organized and on track, but potentially add some additional savings to your pocket.  

The benefit of autopay can be a reward to you as it shows a level of commitment to paying your bills to a company. This is a great option to a avoid the potential of a late payment solely due to forgetting.  

Step 3: Don’t Keep Too Much Cash  

Spending cash can work for some but can also be difficult for others to spend sparingly. Even though you may automate your payments and paycheck, you can still leave aside a few hundred dollars (or whatever best fits your budget) as spending cash. A tip is to not keep your cash casually in your wallet to avoid spending it on random purchases. Plan out your spending in advance and get your cash out when and if you need it.  

If you find yourself spending money on non-essentials frequently, consider getting a white board or a day planner to list out those items, as well as items you have run out of, to plan into your budget in advance to grab the next time you are out.  

Step 4: Take Advantage of Cash Back on Your Purchases 

There are so many ways to take advantage of cashback on your everyday purchases. Many credit cards come with rewards that feature a cashback program. If you need a credit card, click here to learn more.  

Step 5: Use Store Rewards and Coupons  

When you plan to make a purchase, plan in advance what you’ll be getting and do your research to see if you can take advantage of your store rewards or apply any coupons. Most common stores typically over a rewards program. Sign up for store rewards and notifications for deals or coupons – if you find it offers no benefits, it is simple to unsubscribe.  

Saving money can be hard especially after a season known for spending! Take the tips from our Spender’s Guide for Saving to apply into your day-today and new year’s savings resolutions! 

Peoples Bank & Trust Co.  

Member FDIC  

Equal Housing Lender