Which option best describes an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM)?

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is best described as a type of home loan that features interest rates which can change periodically. This characteristic distinguishes ARMs from fixed-rate mortgages, where the interest rate remains constant throughout the loan's term. With ARMs, the initial interest rate is typically lower than that of a fixed-rate mortgage, but after an introductory period, the rate adjusts at predetermined intervals—such as annually or semi-annually—based on market conditions, which can lead to fluctuations in monthly payments over time.

In contrast, other options describe different financial products. A loan with a fixed interest rate for its entire term inaccurately represents ARMs, as this describes a fixed-rate mortgage. A short-term mortgage for less than five years is not typically associated with the concept of adjustability in rates, as short-term loans can be either fixed or adjustable. Lastly, a home loan that allows for early repayment without penalties pertains to different loan features, typically associated with certain fixed-rate loans or specific mortgage products, rather than defining what an ARM is.