If you’re looking for a home to purchase, you’re likely well aware that it’s a lot more expensive to buy a home right now than it was last year. As of late August, the average 30-yearmortgage ratewas well over 7% — the highest it’s been since the year 2000. This rate increase is due, in large part, to persistent high inflation, which has led the Federal Reserve to increase rates 11 times over the last 18 months. In turn, mortgage rates have skyrocketed.
But it’s not just high mortgage rates that are causing an affordability issue for buyers. Average home prices have also continued to climb in most markets due to aninventory shortageand persistent demand. But even with the current higher costs of buying a home, the housing market activity hasn’t been fully deterred.
Many potential buyers are still hunting for a home, and if you’re one of them, the upside is that there are still good interest rates to be found on mortgage loans right now. And that’s true whether you’re planning to buy or refinance your current home loan. But to find the best rate, it’s helpful to have an understanding of thecurrent rate environmentand a strong credit score. Here’s what to know about today’s national average mortgage and refinance rates, along with some tips forhow to get the best rates right now.
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What are today’s mortgage and mortgage refinance rates?
The following rates are current as of September 7, 2023, according to national averages collected by Bankrate. While these are averages based on national data, actual rates that you can qualify for may vary depending on your location, credit, loan type and other factors.
Average mortgage rates today:
15-year mortgage: 6.81%30-year mortgage: 7.62%
Average refinance rates today:
15-year refinance: 6.89%30-year refinance: 7.78%
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How to get a great mortgage or refinance rate today
Even though interest rate are higher than they were a few years ago, both new homebuyers and current homeowners looking to refinance can secure a good rate today. Plus, borrowers may soon see some relief if the Fed decides to pause rate hikes following its July rate increase.
“Over the past two years, as the Fed has increased interest rates, borrowing has become more expensive,” says Taylor Jessee, CFP, founder of Impact Financial. “For example, in 2020 you could lock in a mortgage rate between 2-3% easily. Nowadays mortgage rates are closer to 6-7%. If the Fed stops raising rates then I’d anticipate mortgage rates to also stop going up. That’s good news for borrowers.”
While the macro rate environment may be moving in your favor, there are also things you can do to improve your chances of qualifying for a great rate.
Perhaps most importantly, start by strengthening your credit profile. “The best rates go to borrowers with credit scores in the mid- to high-700s or above,” the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s website states. “These borrowers typically also have the most choices available to them.”
Pay your bills in full and on time each month, look for any errors on your credit report and avoid applying for other loans or credit cards too close to your mortgage or refinance application.
You should also shop around and compare different lenders. If you’re refinancing, specifically, don’t hesitate to look beyond your current mortgage lender. You may qualify for different rates and terms, which can make a big difference in what you pay over the lifetime of the loan.
Find the best mortgage refinance rates that you can qualify for here now.
What to look for in a mortgage or refinance loan
One of the first things you may want to consider when choosing a mortgage loan or refinancing is your preferred loan term. Shorter terms (15-year loans) generally offer better interest rates than longer terms (30-year).
Fees are another detail to factor into your overall payment. These can vary depending on your loan type and the closing costs charged by your lender. Both your fees and interest rate can affect your monthly payment. Before you take on any new loan, calculate your monthly payment to make sure you can afford it.
If you’re refinancing, make sure you compare all of the details of the new loan you’re approved for against your existing mortgage. Even if you get a better rate, other factors (like closing costs) could ultimately end up costing you more in the long run.
And don’t forget to lock in your mortgage rate after you’ve made your decision, so you can rest assured that it won’t increase again before you actually close on your home.
The bottom line
While mortgage rates are higher than they were a few years ago, both new homebuyers and existing homeowners who want to refinance still have plenty of good options. Some of the top rates for either mortgage type are still as low as 6% today, but it’s still important to compare a few different lenders and see what the best rates and loan terms are that you can qualify for before locking in a rate. Also make sure to calculate your overall cost and payments so you’re prepared to start paying down your new loan.
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