If you're trying to buy a home, affordability is probably what keeps you up at night. And as you watch mortgage rates tick up again lately, it’s fair to wonder if you should just hit pause and wait for them to go down.
For now, though, they’re headed the other way. Mortgage News Daily data shows how rates have risen this year (see graph below):
And if you’re wondering why? There are several reasons.
Mortgage rates are impacted by the situation overseas, economic data, inflation numbers, oil prices, and even decisions from the Federal Reserve (which recently decided to hike its Fed Funds Rate – which often affects mortgage rates too). As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains:
“The pressure on mortgage rates was here even before the Fed rate hike, and it doesn’t show signs of relenting. . .”
Now, that’s probably not what you wanted to hear. But it doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do. While you can't control where rates go from here, you absolutely can control several things that shape the rate you actually get.
So where should you focus? Let's walk through it.
Work on Your Credit Score
Your credit score plays a big role in the rate you qualify for, and even a small improvement can make a real difference in your monthly payment. As Freddie Mac puts it:
"Generally, the higher your credit score the more options will be available to you, including better loan terms and a lower interest rate."
So, do what you can to keep your credit score up. If you're not sure where your score stands right now, or how to improve it, talk to a trusted loan officer.
Explore Your Loan Options
Your loan type and term both affect your rate. Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans each come with their own requirements and rates, and your term (15, 20, or 30 years) changes both your payment and the total interest you'll pay. The structure matters, too. A fixed-rate loan holds the same rate over time, while an adjustable-rate loan usually starts lower and can move later on. Bankrate explains it this way:
". . . rates on fixed-rate loans are typically higher than introductory rates on adjustable-rate loans because the fixed-rate lender takes on the risk that rates could increase during the loan’s term. Likewise, government-backed FHA, VA and USDA loans sometimes have lower rates because they have a government guarantee or insurance that cuts the lender’s risk."
Explore your options with a lender to see what makes the most sense for you. Be sure to balance your goals, your possible rate, and any potential tradeoffs before deciding. You may even want to talk to multiple lenders to see how the options vary.
Consider a Newly Built Home
Another path to a lower rate depends on the kind of home you buy. Many builders are buying down mortgage rates, which lowers your monthly payment. It’s one way they’re trying to attract buyers and sell their homes.
According to Realtor.com, buyers of newly built homes landed a lower average rate last quarter than buyers of existing homes (see graph below):
If a lower rate is your goal, it may be worth asking your agent to show you new-build communities offering this type of incentive locally.
Bottom Line
You can't control where mortgage rates go, but you can control your credit, your loan, and the kind of home you buy. A trusted lender can help you lock in the best rate you qualify for. And when you’re ready to make a move that fits your budget, let’s connect.