With the barrage of information coming at first time home buyers from all directions, it's no wonder they often feel frustrated and confused when it comes to types of home mortgages and loans. Fortunately, many of the exotic loan types that surfaced before the housing market tumbled have been eliminated, and the buyer is left with fewer difficult or confusing choices. The remaining loan possibilities will be based upon the buyers need, credit history and resources. The first choice the buyer will face is whether to go with a fixed or variable interest rate. The second choice involves whether the loan will be conventional or government-backed. Here are some of the contributing details:

Fixed Rate

With this option the payment will be the same for the life of the loan. Although prime rates rise and fall, the mortgage payments and consumer rates will always remain the same. This certainly makes it easier to budget, and if the prime rate falls dramatically, it is possible to re-finance, although that means a new loan with new closing costs and possibly appraisal costs. Fixed rate loans are available for various time frames, but the most common are 15 and 30 year periods. This may be the best choice if the buyer intends to stay in the home for several years.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages, or ARMs

These begin at a set rate and then adjust periodically at pre-determined intervals. They are generally easier to obtain than fixed rates, and often offer lower interest rates than fixed rates in order to attract buyers. These factors make this loan type popular with buyers that intend to sell in a few years. The downside is that the rate will most often increase, possibly by as much as six percent. ARMs come in several packages.

Conventional Mortgages

These types of Home Mortgages and Loans are created in the private sector, usually from a bank, with no government backing and are known as conventional loans.

Government-backed Loans

This loan will be created in the private sector, but insured by a government agency such as the Veterans Administration or the Department of Housing and Urban Development. These loans include Veterans Administration loans, Federal Housing Administration loans, and USDA loans.

The most important thing to remember is - ask questions, and make sure they are all answered fully. A reputable real estate agent is happy to review any concerns the buyer has, and can always recommend a local, reliable lender or broker. Communities across the country are sponsoring first-time home buyer classes to help buyers understand the process.