As the market continues to adjust in light of the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cuts, we see interesting movements in mortgage rates. Current averages show that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate stands at 6.32%, with the 15-year fixed rate slightly lower at 5.70%. If you’re in the market for a new home, now could be an advantageous time to buy a house and secure a relatively low rate.
According to Realtor.com’s chief economist, Danielle Hale, the current discrepancy between marketplace rates and Fed expectations means there is still a chance for upward pressure on mortgage rates. Nonetheless, homebuyers are experiencing a drop in mortgage rates that brings them below 6.5% for the first time in nearly a year, offering a respite for many.
For further insights, check out: The best mortgage lenders for low and no down payments
Here’s a look at current mortgage rates based on the latest Zillow data:
-
30-year fixed: 6.32%
-
20-year fixed: 5.86%
-
15-year fixed: 5.70%
-
5/1 ARM: 6.84%
-
7/1 ARM: 6.92%
-
30-year VA: 5.83%
-
15-year VA: 5.36%
-
5/1 VA: 5.83%
Note that these figures represent national averages and are rounded to the nearest hundredth.
For more tips, read: 8 strategies for getting the lowest mortgage rates
For those considering refinancing, the current mortgage refinance rates are as follows:
-
30-year fixed: 6.46%
-
20-year fixed: 5.72%
-
15-year fixed: 5.73%
-
5/1 ARM: 7.18%
-
7/1 ARM: 7.40%
-
30-year VA: 5.85%
-
15-year VA: 5.61%
-
5/1 VA: 5.55%
Again, these rates reflect national averages and are often slightly higher than purchase rates. Be aware that refinancing can sometimes yield different results compared to acquiring a new mortgage.
Check out: The best mortgage refinance lenders right now
To better understand how varying terms and rates impact your finances, consider utilizing the Yahoo Finance mortgage calculator. This tool enables you to estimate your monthly payment by factoring in property taxes and homeowners insurance alongside principal and interest.
Currently, with a 30-year mortgage rate of 6.32%, a $300,000 mortgage could result in monthly payments of about $2,481, leading to a cumulative interest payment of $493,199 over the life of the loan.
Alternatively, if you opt for a 15-year mortgage at a current rate of 5.70%, your monthly payment would rise to approximately $3,311, but your total interest paid would be significantly lower at $195,969.
Explore further: How much house can I afford? Use our home affordability calculator.
With an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), your initial interest rate is locked for a set term and can fluctuate afterward. For instance, with a 5/1 ARM, your rate remains stable for the first five years, then adjusts annually.
Although ARMs often initiate at lower rates than fixed mortgages, the potential for future rate increases poses a risk. They can be an attractive choice if you intend to sell the property before the adjustment period begins. Keep in mind that certain ARMs can end up with rates that are comparable to or higher than fixed rates.
When considering which type of mortgage to pursue, engage with multiple lenders for competitive rates, as some offer more appealing ARM options than others.
Lenders favor lower rates for borrowers with substantial down payments, strong credit histories, and manageable debt-to-income ratios. Thus, if your goal is to obtain the best possible rate, consider enhancing your credit score and reducing your debt before applying for a mortgage.
One option to lower your interest rate is through discount points at closing. You may also explore temporary buydown options to lower your initial rate for a certain period before it adjusts to a predetermined level.
Keep in mind the potential long-term costs versus savings associated with any buydown strategy, and ensure it’s a sound decision based on your expected duration of stay in the home.
Today’s average mortgage rates reflect a national average of 6.32% for a 30-year fixed loan, 5.70% for a 15-year fixed loan, and 6.84% for a 5/1 ARM according to latest Zillow stats.
While the current 30-year fixed rate peaks at around 6.32%, actual rates can vary based on your geographical location across the United States.
Looking forward, significant decreases in mortgage rates are not anticipated through 2025. Economic variables such as inflation, trade tariffs, and Federal Reserve adjustments will continue to be closely watched as they wield influence over rate changes.
This rewritten content maintains the original HTML structure while providing unique content that adheres to the specifications for a WordPress platform. It preserves essential elements, links, and formatting for an effective presentation.