The average 15-year fixed mortgage APR is 4.890%, according to Bankrate's latest survey of the nation's largest mortgage lenders, 30 years · 20 years · 10 year mortgage rates · Find mortgage rates by state. If you can save at least 20% for a down payment, you can skip paying private mortgage insurance and qualify for better interest rates. If you want a fixed interest rate over the life of the loan and more stable monthly payments, then a fixed-rate mortgage is ideal. APR stands for annual percentage rate and includes the interest rate plus other charges associated with the mortgage.
You may decide that getting the lower rate is the most important factor for you, while others might opt for a slightly higher rate because they can request it in person, for example. The lender guarantees (with some exceptions) that the mortgage rate offered to a borrower will remain available to that borrower for a specified period of time. That's why a mortgage APR is usually higher than the interest rate, and that's why it's such an important figure when comparing loan offers. Bankrate's mortgage calculator can help you calculate your monthly mortgage payment, which can be useful when considering your budget.
When finding current mortgage rates, the first step is to decide what type of mortgage best fits your goals and budget. The rates shown above are the current rates for the purchase of a single-family primary residence based on a 45-day lockdown period. When comparing mortgage offers, be sure to ask if the interest rate includes discount points. The first number designates the first year your interest rate will change and the second number indicates how often the interest rate is reset after the first time.
Whatever type of mortgage you're looking for, in this environment, it's more important than ever to compare rates before selecting a lender. The mortgage rate offered to you by a lender is determined by a combination of factors that are specific to you and forces majors that are beyond your control. The difference between the APR and the interest rate is that the APR (annual percentage rate) is the total cost of the loan, including the interest rate and all charges. You may receive a lower interest rate for the initial part of the loan term, but your monthly payment may fluctuate as a result of any change in the interest rate.
These rates are different from Freddie Mac rates, which represent a weekly average based on a survey of quoted rates offered to borrowers with strong credit, a 20% down payment, and discounts for points paid.
