Mortgage Rates Today: August 30, 2024, Mortgage Rates Remain at 15-Month Lows

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This week, the mortgage market provided a sense of calm and continuity as rates remained unchanged, holding steady at 15-month lows. The absence of new economic data meant there were no significant shifts in the market, allowing mortgage rates to maintain their favorable position. For those in the market to buy a home or refinance their existing mortgage, this consistency offers an excellent window of opportunity to secure low rates.

Why Stability in Mortgage Rates Matters

When mortgage rates hold steady, it’s a sign of market confidence and predictability. For homebuyers, this means the cost of borrowing remains affordable, allowing for a better budgeting and planning position. Lower rates translate to lower monthly payments, which can make a significant difference over the life of a mortgage. For those considering refinancing, these stable, low rates can offer a chance to reduce monthly payments, shorten the loan term, or even take out some equity at a lower cost.

No New Economic Data, No Surprises

This week, the market was notably quiet, with no new economic reports released and no shifts in the market. Typically, economic data like employment numbers, inflation rates, or consumer spending can cause fluctuations in mortgage rates. Without these reports, the market position had little reason to adjust, resulting in rates staying put. This kind of stability can be reassuring for both buyers and lenders, as it indicates a period of predictability in what can often be a volatile market.

A Prime Opportunity for Buyers and Refinancers

With mortgage rates steady at a 15-month low, now is an ideal time for homebuyers and those in a position to refinance to take action. Locking in a low rate can lead to shifts in substantial savings over the life of a loan. For buyers, it can increase purchasing power, allowing them to afford more home for their money. For homeowners, refinancing at these low rates can reduce monthly payments or provide the opportunity to switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate mortgage, offering long-term financial stability.

Looking Ahead

While this week was quiet, the future direction of mortgage rates will depend on upcoming economic reports. Key indicators, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), unemployment data, and Federal Reserve announcements, could influence where rates head next. For now, the market outlook remains positive and secure, with rates expected to stay at these low levels for the near term.

What Should Your Clients Do Now?

For realtors, this period of rate stability is a great time to encourage clients to act. Whether they are first-time homebuyers or seasoned investors, the current low rates provide an opportunity to secure favorable mortgage terms. Advising clients to stay informed about upcoming economic reports can also help them make timely decisions as the market evolves.

Seize the Opportunity

In a market where mortgage rates are holding steady at 15-month lows, there’s no better time to take advantage of the favorable conditions. With no new economic data this week, the market remains calm and predictable, offering a rare opportunity for homebuyers and refinancers to lock in excellent rates. As we look forward to potential shifts in the coming weeks, now is the time to act and secure the financial benefits that come with these historically low mortgage rates.

Product Rate Last Week Change
30-year fixed 5.874% 5.874% +/- 0.0
15-year fixed 4.99% 4.99% +/- 0.0
30-year FHA 5.249% 5.249% +/- 0.0
30-year VA 5.249% 5.249% +/- 0.0
       
       

DISCLAIMER: ALL LOANS ARE SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL. INTEREST RATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAILY AND WITHOUT NOTICE. CURRENT INTEREST RATES SHOWN ARE INDICATIVE OF MARKET CONDITIONS AND INDIVIDUAL QUALIFICATIONS AND WILL VARY UPON YOUR LOCK-IN PERIOD, LOAN TYPE, CREDIT SCORE, LOAN TO VALUE, PURPOSE, AND LENDING SOURCE.

DISCLAIMER: FOR NEW JERSEY PURPOSES, WE ARE NOT A LENDER AND CANNOT GUARANTEE THESE INTEREST RATES.

30-year fixed-rate mortgages

Presently, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage sits at 5.874%, reflecting a rise/drop of 0.0 basis points from the preceding week. Despite its interest rate being higher than that of the 15-year mortgage, the 30-year option is favored by many buyers for its advantage of providing more budget-friendly monthly payments.

15-year fixed-rate mortgages

The current interest rate for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage is 4.99%, showcasing an increase/decrease of 0.0 basis points from the week prior. Choosing a 15-year mortgage enables borrowers to pay back their loan repayment quicker compared to the 30-year option. While this leads to increased monthly payments, it substantially diminishes the total interest paid over the loan’s duration.

Use our free mortgage and amortization calculators to calculate your monthly payment, including insurance, taxes, and interest.

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