When you’re thinking about buying a home, you may hear a lot about mortgage rates going up or down. But have you ever wondered what causes these changes? One of the biggest influences on mortgage rates is the Federal Reserve, often called “the Fed.” While the Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates directly, its policies play a major role in how much you’ll pay for your home loan. Let’s break it down in simple terms:
How Mortgage Rates Are Determined
When you’re looking to purchase a home or refinance an existing mortgage, understanding how mortgage rates are determined is key to navigating your financial journey. These rates are influenced by a combination of personal financial factors and broader economic conditions, which work together to impact how much you’ll pay over the life of your loan.
Why Refinancing Your Mortgage Before the Year Ends Is a Great Option
As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to consider refinancing your mortgage. Whether you’ve been thinking about lowering your monthly payment, securing a better interest rate, or tapping into your home’s equity, refinancing can offer many benefits.
What You Can Do Now to Prepare for Mortgage Rate Drops
As we move into the last month of 2024, many potential homebuyers are eagerly awaiting a drop in mortgage rates. With inflation numbers looking promising, there’s hope that the Federal Reserve will lower the federal funds rate, which typically drives mortgage rates down as well. If you’re planning to buy a home or refinance when rates drop, now is the perfect time to start preparing.
What Is A Mortgage Par Rate And How Does It Work
Think of the par rate as the raw, default rate offered by a lender. It’s not the lowest rate you can get, nor is it inflated by any adjustments. Lenders determine the par rate based on a variety of factors, such as current market conditions, your credit score, the loan type, and the loan amount.
What Borrowers Need to Know About Mortgage Rate Locks
When it comes to securing a mortgage, timing is everything–especially when it comes to locking in an interest rate. Mortgage rates can fluctuate daily, and even a small change can have a significant impact on your monthly payments and the total cost of your loan. To protect yourself from rising interest rates while you’re in the process of buying a home or refinancing, you can use a mortgage rate lock.
