In an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM), the components that adjust periodically are the index and the interest rate. Here's how it works:
* The index is the benchmark interest rate that fluctuates with market conditions (e.g., LIBOR, SOFR).
* The interest rate adjusts based on changes in the index, but the margin (the fixed percentage added to the index) remains constant throughout the life of the loan.
Thus, the index and interest rate are the variables that change periodically, while the margin remains fixed.
References:
* Fannie Mae Selling Guide for ARMs
* Freddie Mac ARM Guidelines