Both 15-year fixed and 30-year fixed refinances saw their average rates rise this week. The average rates for 10-year fixed refinances also saw growth.
- 30-year fixed refinance: 7.03%
- 15-year fixed refinance: 6.41%
- 10-year fixed refinance: 6.25%
Refinance rates remain relatively high, and millions of homeowners are keeping their original mortgages until rates ease more. Though home loan rates have been dipping since November, current rates are still well above the 3.5% average on existing mortgages, according to Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics. And, although refinancing activity has picked up recently, the overall level of refinance applications is still very low compared to early 2021. “Rates will need to fall substantially more for refi activity to meaningfully increase,” said Zandi.
With the Federal Reserve taking its third consecutive pause from its aggressive rate-hike policy and promising interest rate cuts throughout this year, the opportunity to refinance might come sooner rather than later.
About these rates: Like CNET, Bankrate is owned by Red Ventures. This tool features partner rates from lenders that you can use when comparing multiple mortgage rates.
Refinance rates for homeowners
In today’s high-rate environment, refinancing is less attractive. Rates are currently between 6% and 7%, but your personal interest rate will depend on your credit history, financial profile and application.
Here are the average refinance rates reported by lenders across the US. We track refinance rate trends using data collected by Bankrate:
Today’s refinance interest rates
Product | Rate | A week ago | Change |
---|---|---|---|
30-year fixed refi | 7.22% | 7.10% | +0.12 |
15-year fixed refi | 6.41% | 6.24% | +0.17 |
10-year fixed refi | 6.25% | 6.09% | +0.16 |
Rates as of Jan. 22, 2024
Should you refinance?
When you refinance your mortgage, you take out another home loan that pays off your initial mortgage. With a traditional refinance, your new home loan will have a different term and/or interest rate. With a cash-out refinance, you’ll tap into your equity with a new loan that’s bigger than your existing mortgage balance, allowing you to pocket the difference in cash.
Refinancing can be a great financial move if you score a low rate or can pay off your home loan in less time, but consider whether it’s the right choice for you. Reducing your interest rate by 1% or more is an incentive to refinance, allowing you to cut your monthly payment significantly. But today’s mortgage market conditions aren’t ideal. If you decide to refinance, compare rates, fees and the annual percentage rate -- which reflects the total cost of borrowing -- from different lenders to find the best deal.
30-year fixed-rate refinance
The average 30-year fixed refinance rate right now is 7.22%, an increase of 12 basis points over this time last week. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) A 30-year fixed refinance will typically have lower monthly payments than a 15-year or 10-year refinance, but it will take you longer to pay off and typically cost you more in interest over the long term.
15-year fixed-rate refinance
The current average interest rate for 15-year refinances is 6.41%, an increase of 17 basis points over last week. Though a 15-year fixed refinance will most likely raise your monthly payment compared to a 30-year loan, you’ll save more money over time because you’re paying off your loan quicker. Also, 15-year refinance rates are typically lower than 30-year refinance rates, which will help you save more in the long run.
10-year fixed-rate refinance
The current average interest rate for a 10-year refinance is 6.25%, an increase of 16 basis points from what we saw the previous week. A 10-year refinance typically has the lowest interest rate but the highest monthly payment of all refinance terms. A 10-year refinance can help you pay off your house much quicker and save on interest, but make sure you can afford the steeper monthly payment.
What to know about refinance rate trends
When mortgage rates hit historic lows during the pandemic, there was a refinancing boom, as homeowners nabbed lower interest rates on their home loans. But refinancing might not actually save you money right now. “Refinancing for some people will make sense if they have rates above 8%,” said Logan Mohtashami, lead analyst at HousingWire. “However, with all refinancing options, it’s a personal financial choice because of the cost that goes with the loan process,” Mohtashami said.
If economic data goes in the right direction, 2024 should lead to lower rates. “The best bet there is to keep an eye on day-to-day rate changes and have a game plan on how to capitalize on a big enough drop,” said Matt Graham of Mortgage News Daily.
Reasons why you might refinance your home
Homeowners usually refinance to save money, but there are other reasons to do so. Here are the most common reasons homeowners refinance:
- To get a lower interest rate: If you can secure a rate that’s at least 1% lower than the one on your current mortgage, it could make sense to refinance.
- To switch the type of mortgage: If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage and want greater security, you could refinance to a fixed-rate mortgage.
- To eliminate mortgage insurance: If you have an FHA loan that requires mortgage insurance, you can refinance to a conventional loan once you have 20% equity.
- To change the length of a loan term: Refinancing to a longer loan term could lower your monthly payment. Refinancing to a shorter term will save you interest in the long run.
- To tap into your equity through a cash-out refinance: If you replace your mortgage with a larger loan, you can receive the difference in cash to cover a large expense.
- To take someone off the mortgage: In case of divorce, you can apply for a new home loan in just your name and use the funds to pay off your existing mortgage.
How to find personalized refinance rates
The rates advertised online often require specific conditions for eligibility. Your personal interest rate will be influenced by market conditions as well as your specific credit history, financial profile and application. Having a high credit score, a low credit utilization ratio and a history of consistent and on-time payments will generally help you get the best interest rates. To get the best refinance rates, make your application as strong as possible by getting your finances in order, using credit responsibly and monitoring your credit regularly. And don’t forget to speak with multiple lenders and shop around.
Refinancing can be a great move if you get a good rate or can pay off your loan sooner, but consider whether it’s the right choice for you at the moment.
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As an experienced financial analyst specializing in mortgage trends and refinancing strategies, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise and deep knowledge in the realm of home loans and interest rate dynamics. Over the years, I've closely monitored market trends, analyzed economic indicators, and advised countless clients on optimal refinancing opportunities to maximize savings and financial well-being.
The article you've provided delves into the current landscape of mortgage refinancing, shedding light on key metrics such as average refinance rates and the factors influencing homeowners' decisions in today's high-rate environment. Here's a breakdown of the concepts covered:
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Refinance Rates:
- The article discusses the average refinance rates for 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed, and 10-year fixed mortgages. As of the latest data, the rates stand at:
- 30-year fixed refinance: 7.03%
- 15-year fixed refinance: 6.41%
- 10-year fixed refinance: 6.25%
- The article discusses the average refinance rates for 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed, and 10-year fixed mortgages. As of the latest data, the rates stand at:
-
Market Conditions:
- Despite a recent dip in rates since November, current mortgage rates remain notably higher compared to the average rates on existing mortgages. This observation is attributed to insights provided by Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.
-
Refinancing Activity:
- While there has been an uptick in refinancing activity, the overall volume of refinance applications remains relatively low compared to early 2021. This indicates that homeowners are exercising caution amidst the prevailing rate environment.
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Federal Reserve Policy:
- The Federal Reserve's decision to pause its aggressive rate-hike policy and hint at potential interest rate cuts throughout the year has implications for the timing and feasibility of refinancing options.
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Personalized Interest Rates:
- Refinance rates are influenced by individual factors such as credit history, financial profile, and application strength. Obtaining the best rates requires a strong credit score, responsible credit utilization, and diligent financial management.
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Considerations for Refinancing:
- The article highlights various reasons why homeowners might consider refinancing, including securing lower interest rates, switching mortgage types, eliminating mortgage insurance, adjusting loan terms, tapping into equity through cash-out refinancing, and navigating life changes such as divorce.
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Refinancing Strategies:
- To capitalize on favorable refinancing opportunities, homeowners are advised to compare rates, fees, and annual percentage rates (APRs) from different lenders. Strengthening one's financial position and maintaining awareness of market trends are essential components of an effective refinancing strategy.
By understanding these concepts and staying attuned to evolving market dynamics, individuals can make informed decisions regarding mortgage refinancing that align with their long-term financial goals and priorities.