Should You Wait for Rates to Drop or Lock In What You Can Qualify For Today?
With the 30-year fixed rate near 6.8% and forecasters predicting only a 0.25–0.50% drop by year-end, waiting may cost you equity and expose you to rising home prices.
Tag home buying tips
How First-Time Homebuyers With Student Debt Can Still Qualify for a Competitive Mortgage Rate
Switch to income-driven repayment, boost your credit above 720, and shop multiple lenders. First-time buyers with student loans can qualify for competitive mortgage rates.
What Happens to Your Mortgage Rate When You Buy a Fixer-Upper
Fixer-uppers typically carry rates 0.25%–1.0% above standard loans. Here's what drives that premium and how renovation loans can help you close the gap.
How a Low Appraisal Can Silently Raise Your Mortgage Rate
A 5–10% appraisal gap can add 0.25–0.75 points to your mortgage rate by pushing your LTV into a higher risk tier—often after you've already set a closing date.