Current Mortgage Rates

Saturday, October 11, 2008



These days, not much. Ideally, you would have enough cash for a 20% down payment, closing costs equal to about 3% to 5% of the purchase price, and enough left over to cover two or three months of monthly housing expenses. That gives you a big chunk of equity in your house upfront and makes the lender happy -- something that usually translates into a better deal. The trouble is, coming up with that much cash can be all but impossible for many first-time buyers. If your down payment on a home is less than 20 percent of the appraised value or sale price, you must obtain private mortgage insurance, known as PMI, with your lender. This will enable you to obtain a mortgage with a lower down payment because your lender is now protected against any default on the loan.

The larger loan possible with PMI boosts your tax deductions for mortgage interest. How much does it cost? Premiums vary. They are determined by the size of the down payment, the type of mortgage and amount of insurance. Premiums are typically included in your monthly mortgage payment. The average range for a $100,000 loan is $25 to $65 per month. Different payment schedules are available. Contact your lender to discuss your options.




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Current Mortgage Rates*

Loan Type
National Average
30-yr. fixed6.12%
30-yr. fixed jumbo7.62%
15-yr. fixed5.88%
15-yr. fixed jumbo7.12%
7/1 ARM6.25%
5/1 ARM6.00%
3/1 ARM5.88%
1-yr. ARM5.50%
1-yr. LIBOR ARM6.12%
10/1 ARM8.25%
40-yr. fixed7.12%
*Mortgage Rates Updated: 10/07/2008