Final answer:
A fixed-rate mortgage has a consistent interest rate throughout the loan term, while a variable-rate mortgage can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
A fixed-rate mortgage has a consistent interest rate throughout the loan term, while a variable-rate mortgage can fluctuate based on market conditions. This is the main difference between the two types of mortgages. With a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rate remains the same for the entire duration of the loan, providing borrowers with stability and predictable monthly payments. On the other hand, a variable-rate mortgage has an interest rate that can change over time, typically tied to an index such as the prime rate or LIBOR, which means the monthly payments can vary.