interest rates now mortgage insights for homebuyers and owners

Where rates stand today

Mortgage pricing today reflects inflation trends, central bank signals, and lender funding costs. Your actual rate depends on credit, loan-to-value, occupancy, and whether you pay points. Lenders quote a note rate and an APR; the APR folds in fees so you can compare apples to apples.

What this means for your budget

A shift of 0.25% can move a monthly payment meaningfully, so build in a cushion. Weigh fixed versus ARM terms, and consider a rate lock if you are under contract. Paying discount points can make sense when the breakeven-total points divided by monthly savings-is under your expected time in the home.

• Get written quotes from at least three lenders
• Compare APR, points, and third‑party fees
• Ask about buydowns, seller credits, and lender credits
• Evaluate a lock with a float‑down provision
• Mind your credit and debt‑to‑income before closing

Next steps

Secure a preapproval, gather pay stubs, W‑2s, and asset statements, and revisit quotes the day you lock. Don’t time the market; focus on affordability, reserves, and a payment you can live with through cycles.