Mortgage Rates Hold Steady Ahead of Key Inflation Report
As the market awaits the release of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) today, mortgage rates have remained largely unchanged. According to Zillow, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has dipped by just one basis point to 6.87%, while the 15-year fixed interest rate has increased by a single basis point to 6.17%.
What the CPI Means for Mortgage Rates
The CPI is a crucial indicator of inflation, and its latest trends will likely influence the Federal Reserve’s decision on when to cut the federal funds rate this year. As a result, mortgage rates could experience more significant shifts in response to the report.
Current Mortgage Rates
Here are the latest mortgage rates, based on Zillow data:
- 30-year fixed: 6.87%
- 20-year fixed: 6.77%
- 15-year fixed: 6.17%
- 5/1 ARM: 6.72%
- 7/1 ARM: 6.69%
- 30-year VA: 6.36%
- 15-year VA: 5.77%
- 5/1 VA: 6.51%
- 30-year FHA: 6.33%
- 5/1 FHA: 6.38%
Understanding Mortgage Refinance Rates
Mortgage refinance rates are often higher than rates for purchasing a home, although this isn’t always the case. Here are the current refinance rates, according to Zillow:
- 30-year fixed: 6.91%
- 20-year fixed: 6.80%
- 15-year fixed: 6.18%
- 5/1 ARM: 6.68%
- 7/1 ARM: 6.78%
- 30-year VA: 6.35%
- 15-year VA: 5.96%
- 5/1 VA: 6.28%
- 5/1 FHA: 6.50%
The Pros and Cons of 30-Year Fixed Mortgages
A 30-year fixed mortgage offers lower monthly payments and predictable payments, but it comes with higher interest rates and more interest paid over the life of the loan.
The Advantages of 15-Year Fixed Mortgages
On the other hand, 15-year fixed mortgages offer lower interest rates and the potential to save hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest over the life of the loan. However, monthly payments are higher due to the shorter repayment period.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgages: Weighing the Risks and Rewards
Adjustable-rate mortgages offer lower introductory rates, but they come with the risk of rate increases later on. If you plan to move before the intro-rate period ends, an ARM might be a good option. However, if you’re unsure about future rate changes, a fixed-rate mortgage might be a safer bet.
How to Get the Best Mortgage Rate
To secure a low mortgage rate, focus on improving your credit score and lowering your debt-to-income ratio. Refinancing into a shorter term can also land you a lower rate, although your monthly payments will be higher.
Leave a Reply