📊 Today's Rates by Credit Score
Your credit score is the #1 factor determining your mortgage rate. Here's what you can expect today based on your score:
| Credit Score | 30-Year Rate | Monthly Payment* | Total Interest* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 760-850 (Excellent) | 6.25% | $2,462 | $486,320 |
| 700-759 (Good) | 6.45% | $2,528 | $510,080 |
| 660-699 (Fair) | 6.875% | $2,627 | $545,720 |
| 620-659 (Poor) | 7.25% | $2,729 | $582,440 |
| 580-619 (Bad) | 7.75% | $2,867 | $632,120 |
*Based on $400,000 loan amount, 30-year fixed. Payments include principal and interest only.
💡 The Credit Score Difference
The difference between a 620 and 760 credit score is $96,120 in extra interest over 30 years!Improve your score before applying orcheck your rate now.
📉 Rate Trends: Where Are Rates Heading?
✅ Bullish Factors (Rates Down)
- • Fed signaling rate cuts in 2025
- • Inflation cooling to 2.4%
- • Economic growth slowing
- • Bond yields declining
- • Global economic uncertainty
⚠️ Bearish Factors (Rates Up)
- • Strong job market
- • Sticky core inflation
- • Government deficit spending
- • Geopolitical tensions
- • Housing demand resilient
🔮 Expert Rate Predictions for 2025
| Source | Q1 2025 | Q2 2025 | Q4 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fannie Mae | 6.4% | 6.2% | 5.9% |
| Mortgage Bankers Assoc. | 6.5% | 6.3% | 5.8% |
| NAR | 6.3% | 6.1% | 5.7% |
| Consensus | 6.4% | 6.2% | 5.8% |
🎯 Should You Lock Today or Wait?
Our recommendation: If you're buying in the next 60-90 days, lock now. Rates are down this week and could bounce back. If rates drop significantly later, many lenders offer "float down" options.
If you're planning to buy in 6+ months, focus on improving your credit score to get the best rate when you're ready.
🏠 Which Loan Type Has the Best Rate?
🎖️ VA Loans - BEST RATES
5.95%VA loans consistently offer the lowest rates because they're government-backed with no PMI. Available to veterans, active military, and surviving spouses.
- ✓ No down payment required
- ✓ No PMI ever
- ✓ Lowest rates available
- ✓ Easier qualification
🏡 FHA Loans - GREAT FOR LOW CREDIT
6.15%FHA loans are ideal for first-time buyers or those with lower credit scores. Rates are competitive and qualification is easier.
- ✓ 3.5% down with 580+ credit
- ✓ 500 credit score minimum (10% down)
- ✓ Higher DTI allowed (up to 57%)
- ✓ Gift funds allowed for down payment
🏦 Conventional Loans - MOST FLEXIBLE
6.45%Conventional loans offer the most flexibility and can have lower total costs if you have good credit and 20% down (no PMI).
- ✓ 3% down available (with PMI)
- ✓ No upfront mortgage insurance
- ✓ PMI cancels at 20% equity
- ✓ Best for 740+ credit scores
⚡ 5/1 ARM - LOWEST INITIAL RATE
5.75%ARMs offer the lowest initial rates but adjust after the fixed period. Good if you plan to sell or refinance within 5-7 years.
- ✓ Lowest initial rate
- ✓ Fixed for first 5 years
- ✓ Good for short-term ownership
- ⚠️ Rate adjusts after fixed period
💰 7 Ways to Get the Best Mortgage Rate
1. Improve Your Credit Score
Every 20-point increase can lower your rate by 0.125-0.25%.See how to boost your score.
2. Compare Multiple Lenders
Rates can vary by 0.5% or more between lenders. Always get at least 3-5 quotes.Compare rates from 5+ lenders.
3. Make a Larger Down Payment
20% down eliminates PMI and often gets you a better rate. Even 10% down can improve your rate compared to 3-5% down.
4. Consider Buying Points
Paying 1% of the loan upfront (1 point) typically lowers your rate by 0.25%. Worth it if you'll keep the loan 5+ years.
5. Choose a Shorter Term
15-year mortgages have rates 0.5-0.75% lower than 30-year. Higher payment but massive interest savings.
6. Lock at the Right Time
Watch rate trends and lock when rates dip. Most locks are 30-60 days. Ask about "float down" options if rates drop after locking.
7. Lower Your DTI Ratio
Pay down debt before applying. Lower debt-to-income ratio = better rates and easier approval.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good mortgage rate right now?
As of December 2025, a good 30-year fixed rate is 6.25-6.50% for borrowers with excellent credit (740+). Rates below 6% are excellent. Anything above 7% is considered high in the current market.
Will mortgage rates go down in 2025?
Most experts predict rates will gradually decline through 2025, potentially reaching 5.7-5.9% by Q4. However, rates are unpredictable—if you find a good rate today, consider locking it.
How do I get the lowest mortgage rate?
Improve your credit score to 740+, make a 20% down payment, compare multiple lenders, and consider buying points.Compare your options here.
Should I lock my rate today?
If you're buying within 60-90 days and found a rate you're comfortable with, yes—lock it. Rates can change daily. Most lenders offer float-down options if rates drop significantly after you lock.
What's the difference between rate and APR?
The rate is the interest charged on your loan. APR (Annual Percentage Rate) includes the rate PLUS fees, giving you the true cost of borrowing. Always compare APRs when shopping lenders.
🎯 Get Your Personalized Rate Now
The rates above are averages. YOUR rate depends on your credit, down payment, and loan type. Get your personalized rate in 2 minutes—no obligation, no impact on credit.