Frequently asked questions

  1. How do I know how much house I can afford?
  2. What is the difference between a fixed-rate loan and an adjustable-rate loan?
  3. How is an index and margin used in an ARM?
  4. How do I know which type of mortgage is best for me?
  5. What does my mortgage payment include?
  6. How much cash will I need to purchase a home?
  7. Will Red River Bank mail me offers for mortgage refinancing or other mortgage-related services?
1. How do I know how much house I can afford?
Generally speaking, you can purchase a home with a value of two or three times your annual household income. However, the amount that you can borrow will also depend upon your employment history, credit history, current savings and debts, and the amount of down payment you are willing to make. You may also be able to take advantage of special loan programs for first time buyers to purchase a home with a higher value. Give us a call, and we can help you determine exactly how much you can afford.
2. What is the difference between a fixed-rate loan and an adjustable-rate loan?
With a fixed-rate mortgage (FRM), the interest rate stays the same during the life of the loan. With an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), the interest changes periodically, typically in relation to an index. While the monthly payments that you make with a fixed-rate mortgage are relatively stable, payments on an ARM loan will likely change. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of mortgage, and the best way to select a loan product is by talking to us.
3. How is an index and margin used in an ARM?
An index is an economic indicator that lenders use to set the interest rate for an ARM. Generally the interest rate that you pay is a combination of the index rate and a pre-specified margin. Three commonly used indices are the One-Year Treasury Bill, the Cost of Funds of the 11th District Federal Home Loan Bank (COFI), and the London InterBank Offering Rate (LIBOR).
4. How do I know which type of mortgage is best for me?
There is no simple formula to determine the type of mortgage that is best for you. This choice depends on a number of factors, including your current financial picture and how long you intend to keep your house. Red River Bank can help you evaluate your choices and help you make the most appropriate decision.
5. What does my mortgage payment include?
For most homeowners, the monthly mortgage payments include three separate parts:
  • Principal: Repayment on the amount borrowed
  • Interest: Payment to the lender for the amount borrowed
  • Taxes & Insurance: Monthly payments are normally made into a special escrow account for items like hazard insurance and property taxes. This feature is sometimes optional, in which case the fees will be paid by you directly to the parish or city tax collector and property insurance company.
6. How much cash will I need to purchase a home?
The amount of cash that is necessary depends on a number of items. Generally speaking, though, you will need to supply:
  • Earnest Money: The deposit that is supplied when you make an offer on the house
  • Down Payment: A percentage of the cost of the home that is due at settlement
  • Closing Costs: Costs associated with processing paperwork to purchase or refinance a house
7. Will Red River Bank mail me offers for mortgage refinancing or other mortgage-related services?
Red River Bank rarely markets mortgage services through direct mail. More commonly, you may receive such offers from third parties that appear to be coming from Red River Bank, sometimes even referencing your Red River Bank loan. These third-party senders often use public records to identify and market their services to consumers who recently purchased or refinanced a home. Red River Bank does not authorize these mailings, has no affiliation with these third parties, and does not share your mortgage information with them. If you receive an offer about which you have questions or concerns, please contact the Red River Bank mortgage team.