Average mortgage rates increased this week, following two consecutive weeks of decreases. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is now at 5.51%. Average 15-year fixed and 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates also increased.
Rates started the week relatively high but trended down when the Bureau of Labor Statistics released its latest Consumer Price Index data. The CPI report showed that prices increased at an even faster rate in June than they have been in previous months, at a year-over-year rate of 9.1%. Fears that such a high rate of inflation could lead to a recession fueled a slight drop in mortgage rates, though they’ve since ticked back up and are now holding steady.
Today’s mortgage rates
Today’s refinance rates
Mortgage calculator
Use our free mortgage calculator to see how today’s mortgage rates will affect your monthly and long-term payments.
By plugging in different term lengths and interest rates, you’ll see how your monthly payment could change.
Are mortgage rates going up?
Mortgage rates started ticking up from historic lows in the second half of 2021, and may continue to increase throughout 2022.
In the last 12 months, the Consumer Price Index rose by 9.1%. The Federal Reserve has been working to get inflation under control, and plans to increase the federal funds target rate four more times this year, following increases in March, May, and June.
Though not directly tied to the federal funds rate, mortgage rates are often pushed up as a result of Fed rate hikes. As the central bank continues to tighten monetary policy to lower inflation, it’s likely that mortgage rates will remain elevated.
What do high rates mean for the housing market?
When mortgage rates go up, home shoppers’ buying power decreases, as more of their anticipated housing budget has to go toward paying interest. If rates get high enough, buyers can get priced out of the market completely, which cools demand and puts downward pressure on home price growth.
However, that doesn’t mean home prices will fall — in fact, they’re expected to rise even more this year, just at a slower pace than what we’ve seen in the past couple of years.
What is a good mortgage rate?
It can be hard to know if a lender is offering you a good rate, which is why it’s so important to get preapproved with multiple mortgage lenders and compare each offer. Apply for preapproval with at least two or three lenders.
Your rate isn’t the only thing that matters. Be sure to compare both what your monthly costs would be as well as your upfront costs, including any lender fees.
Even though mortgage rates are heavily influenced by economic factors that are out of your control, there are some things you can do to help ensure you get a good rate:
Consider fixed vs. adjustable rates. You may be able to get a lower introductory rate with an adjustable-rate mortgage, which can be good if you plan to move before the intro period ends. But a fixed rate could be better if you’re buying a forever home because you won’t risk your rate going up later. Look at the rates your lender offers and weigh your options.Look at your finances. The stronger your financial situation, the lower your mortgage rate should be. Look for ways to boost your credit score or lower your debt-to-income ratio, if necessary. Saving for a higher down payment also helps.Choose the right lender. Each lender charges different mortgage rates. Picking the right one for your financial situation will help you land a good rate.