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Mortgage rates have steadily been decreasing for several months now. In April, 30-year mortgage rates averaged 6.85%, according to Zillow data. So far in July, they've been around 6.49%, and have trended even lower in recent weeks.
But it will likely take a while for rates to fully come down, and borrowers shouldn't expect them to drop to the historic lows of early 2021, when 30-year rates fell to an all-time low of 2.65%, according to Freddie Mac.
If inflation continues to slow and the Federal Reserve is able to start lowering the federal funds rate, it's possible mortgage rates could finally dip back into the 5% range in 2025. But it's hard to say with certainty whether rates will drop any further than this.
Mortgage rates are determined by a variety of factors, including economic trends, Fed policy, investor demand, and more. Right now, the economy is relatively strong, though it's cooling off after running too hot for several years. This cooling should allow mortgage rates to decrease. But unless the economy weakens significantly, we probably won't see rates plunge like they did after the start of the pandemic.
Use our free mortgage calculator to see how today's interest rates will affect your monthly payments:
By clicking on "More details," you'll also see how much you'll pay over the entire length of your mortgage, including how much goes toward the principal vs. interest.
Mortgage rates started ticking up from historic lows in the second half of 2021 and increased dramatically in 2022 and throughout most of 2023.
Many forecasts expect rates to fall this year now that inflation has been coming down. In the last 12 months, the Consumer Price Index rose by 3.0%. This is a significant slowdown compared when it peaked at 9.1% in 2022, which means mortgage rates should start trending down soon.
For homeowners looking to leverage their home's value to cover a big purchase — such as a home renovation — a home equity line of credit (HELOC) may be a good option while we wait for mortgage rates to ease. Check out some of our best HELOC lenders to start your search for the right loan for you.
A HELOC is a line of credit that lets you borrow against the equity in your home. It works similarly to a credit card in that you borrow what you need rather than getting the full amount you're borrowing in a lump sum. It also lets you tap into the money you have in your home without replacing your entire mortgage, like you'd do with a cash-out refinance.
Current HELOC rates are relatively low compared to other loan options, including credit cards and personal loans.
We aren't likely to see home prices drop this year. In fact, they'll probably rise.
Fannie Mae researchers expect prices to increase 4.8% in 2024 and 1.5% in 2025, while the Mortgage Bankers Association expects a 4.5% increase in 2024 and a 3.3% increase in 2024.
Sky high mortgage rates have pushed many hopeful buyers out of the market, slowing homebuying demand and putting downward pressure on home prices. But rates have since eased, removing some of that pressure. The current supply of homes is also historically low, which will likely push prices up.
House prices usually drop during a recession, but not always. When it does happen, it's generally because fewer people can afford to purchase homes, and the low demand forces sellers to lower their prices.
A mortgage calculator like the one above can help you determine how much house you can afford. Play around with different home prices and down payment amounts to see how much your monthly payment could be, and think about how that fits in with your overall budget.
Typically, experts recommend spending no more than 28% of your gross monthly income on housing expenses. This means your entire monthly mortgage payment, including taxes and insurance, shouldn't exceed 28% of your pre-tax monthly income.
The lower your rate, the more you'll be able to borrow, so shop around and get preapproved with multiple mortgage lenders to see who can offer you the best rate. But remember not to borrow more than what your budget can comfortably handle.
