MNC mortgage education

Mortgage Rate Trends: What Homebuyers Should Expect

Understand rate headlines, the cost of a mortgage offer and the questions to ask before choosing a loan. This guide does not forecast rates or quote a current MNC rate.

A headline is a starting point

Your mortgage offer depends on the loan and your application, including credit, loan amount, down payment and property. A national average cannot establish the rate available to you. Ask which assumptions sit behind any number you are comparing.

Compare the full offer

The interest rate describes the cost of borrowing before fees. APR includes certain additional borrowing costs. Compare the same loan type and term, and check points, lender credits and mortgage insurance rather than selecting the lowest headline alone.

Make timing part of the conversation

Rates can change between quotes. Compare offers prepared close together and ask whether each rate is locked, when the lock expires and what happens if closing is delayed. An adjustable-rate loan also needs a review of possible future payment changes.

Sources and further reading

By Anthony Piccone · 7th Level Mortgage LLC

CFPB: Factors affecting mortgage rates

CFPB: Interest rate and APR

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