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Things to Know About Mortgage Rates


You might be hearing a lot about mortgage rates these days. Perhaps you saw headlines about last week's Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting and interest rates. However, despite what the headlines may suggest, the Federal Reserve does not directly determine mortgage rates.



Factors Influencing Mortgage Rates

In reality, mortgage rates are influenced by a variety of factors, such as geopolitical uncertainty, inflation, and economic conditions. Predicting when and how all these factors will align to lower rates is very difficult. Therefore, trying to time the market usually doesn't make much sense. Instead, it is wiser to focus on the factors we can control.



Factors You Can Influence

There are several elements within your control that can help you turn your moving plans into reality concerning interest rates:


Credit Score

Your credit score plays a significant role in mortgage rates. As explained in an article by CNET: “You can't control economic factors, but you can secure the best rate for your situation. Improving your credit score is the starting point. Lenders reference credit scores to determine loan approval and rates. A high credit score can help you secure a lower-than-average rate.”

In a high-rate environment, maintaining a good credit score is even more crucial. If you want to focus on improving your credit score to get the best rate, seek advice from a trusted loan officer.


Loan Type

There are various types of loans, each offering different terms. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): “There are conventional loans, FHA loans, USDA loans, VA loans, and more. Lenders decide which products to offer, and each loan type has different eligibility requirements. The loan type you choose can significantly affect your interest rate.”

When working with a real estate professional team, it’s important to understand the loan types and their eligibility requirements.


Loan Term Another consideration is the loan term. Just like loan types, there is a range of options. According to Freddie Mac: “When choosing the right mortgage, consider the loan term, which is the length of time it will take to pay off the loan in full. The loan term affects the interest rate, monthly payments, and the total interest paid over the life of the loan.”


Depending on your situation, the loan term can impact the mortgage rate.



Again, while you can't control the broader economic conditions, managing the factors within your control is essential. By strategically planning and focusing on elements that influence rates, you can overcome today’s high rates and secure the best possible rate. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact me. We’ll find the best solution together!

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