Current Mortgage Rates

Wednesday, December 03, 2008



Assuming that the national housing rates are still relatively low, you may be able to refinance your first mortgage and play up your improved credit history and income earning potential to lenders. Your institution will likely grant you a lower rate if you've made good on your payments for several years and if you tap into the market during a propitious time.

Reduce your Mortgage Interest Rates:

* Increase Your Down Payment: By increasing your down payment, you can knock off up to a percentage point. Zero or little down financing is great for those short on cash, but rates are significantly higher. Ideally, you want to put down 25% to get the best rates. Just leave enough cash reserves to financing moving expenses.

* Pay A Point Or Two: Points paid upfront can also lower your interest rate. You want to be sure though that you recoup the upfront costs. If you plan to move or refinance in a couple of years, you will not see the savings of lower rates. You may also find that your money would be better spent on increasing your down payment than on paying points. With this type of decision, you will want to do some math with a mortgage calculator.

* Improve your credit: You may be able to lower your interest rate by taking advantage of an improved credit history. If your credit rating was low when you first acquired your loan, you may have a high interest rate. If you've been paying your bills on time, your credit may have improved, in which case you might qualify for a lower rate. There are many credit repair companies that can help you improve your credit. Beware of credit consolidation companies, which actually can further damage your credit!




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Current Mortgage Rates*

Loan Type
National Average
30-yr. fixed5.88%
30-yr. fixed jumbo7.62%
15-yr. fixed5.50%
15-yr. fixed jumbo7.50%
7/1 ARM6.25%
5/1 ARM5.88%
3/1 ARM5.88%
1-yr. ARM6.75%
1-yr. LIBOR ARM6.12%
10/1 ARM7.88%
40-yr. fixed7.00%
*Mortgage Rates Updated: 12/01/2008