March 12, 2024: Mortgage rates for 30-day terms remain close to a five-week low, yet refinancing rates have surged.
Daily Movement in Mortgage Rates: Insights and Analysis
The latest data shows that 30-year new purchase mortgage rates experienced minimal change recently, inching up marginally to an average of 7.13% after a brief decline. While most averages remained stable, 30-year refinance rates saw a noticeable increase during this period.
Comparing Mortgage Rates Across Loan Types
It’s important to note that mortgage rates can vary significantly between lenders. Therefore, it is advisable to shop around and compare rates regularly to find the best mortgage option that suits your financial needs, regardless of the type of home loan you are considering.
Today’s Mortgage Rate Averages for New Purchase
Recent trends in 30-year new purchase mortgage rates show a downward trajectory, with rates dropping to 7.13% after a peak in mid-February. While the current average is slightly elevated compared to earlier this year, it remains lower than historic highs recorded in October.
Moreover, 15-year new purchase rates also saw a modest increase, reaching 6.50%. Despite this uptick, current rates are still favorable compared to previous months and years.
The Weekly Freddie Mac Average
Freddie Mac’s weekly average rate for 30-year mortgages decreased to 6.88%, reflecting a downward trend in recent weeks. This average provides a broader perspective on mortgage rate movements, taking into account a blend of rates over multiple days.
It’s important to note that while our daily averages offer timely indicators, Freddie Mac’s calculations may differ due to various factors, including the inclusion of rates with discount points.
Today’s Mortgage Rate Averages for Refinancing
While most refinancing rates remained stable, 30-year refinance rates surged by 21 basis points, widening the gap between new purchase and refinance rates significantly.
Notable increases were also observed in VA and FHA 30-year mortgage refinance rates, indicating fluctuations in the refinance market.
Factors Influencing Mortgage Rate Changes
Mortgage rates are influenced by a range of macroeconomic and industry-specific factors, including bond market trends, Federal Reserve policies, and competitive pressures within the lending industry.
- The bond market’s performance, especially 10-year Treasury yields
- Federal Reserve policies, particularly regarding bond purchases and mortgage funding
- Competition among lenders and loan types
Fluctuations in mortgage rates are often the result of a complex interplay of these factors, making it challenging to pinpoint a single cause for rate changes.
How We Track Mortgage Rates
Our national averages are based on rates offered by top lenders, providing a representative snapshot for potential borrowers with specific credit profiles and requirements. It’s essential to compare these averages to actual quotes from lenders to understand how individual circumstances can impact final mortgage rates.
For state-specific rate comparisons, we consider the lowest rates available based on common parameters, giving consumers a closer look at regional variations in mortgage rates.