A Perfect Example of What a Refinance Could Do for You

by Tyler Osby on August 23, 2010

Refi Boom is Still Going Strong

Mortgage markets stalled last week in back-and-forth trading as Wall Street grappled with weak housing data, falling builder confidence, and worsening jobs numbers nationwide.

Because markets were volatile, rate shopping was challenging.

Conforming mortgage rates did managed to make a new all-time low last Thursday but quickly gave up those gains. Most of Friday afternoon was spent in the red and, as a result, for the second straight week, mortgage rates failed to fall overall.

But, although last week’s action puts a damper on this summer’s mortgage rate rally, the Refi Boom is still going strong.

According to Freddie Mac, as compared to April 8 when mortgage rates touched their recent high-point, pricing is hugely improved across 3 popular loan products.

  • 30-year fixed : Then, 5.21%; Now, 4.42%
  • 15-year fixed : Then, 4.52%; Now, 3.90%
  • 5-year ARM : Then, 4.25%; Now, 3.56%

As an example of potential savings, a homeowner in Iowa with a $250,000 30-year fixed rate mortgage would save $96 per month at today’s rates as compared to April’s.

Over the life of a loan, that’s a savings of $34,560.  WOW!

Specifically, What Did Those Reports Say?

Each week, I put up an economic calendar of news coming out that following week.   Here’s the what actually happened with those reports last week:

What Impacts Mortgage Rates?

If you’re looking to purchase or refinance a home, it’s important to know what moves mortgage rates.  There are normally two major things that impact the direction:

  1. Economic News.  (Like the calendar above).
  2. International News. (major events, pending legislation, war related news, etc).
  3. Stock Market. (Money flows from equities (stocks) to bonds when it seeks shelter).

What Are Rates Based On?

It’s been mentioned before, but as a common reminder – mortgage rates are only based on one thing, Mortgage Backed Securities (MBS).  The only way you have access to these is through live bond quotes.

Looking For Mortgage Rates?

If you’re looking for specifically what mortgage rates are doing, I’d be happy to help with a custom rate quote.  Each scenario is different (there are 27 different factors a mortgage rate is determined by).  If you or someone you currently know are looking for a mortgage, I’m here to help!

Information without obligation.  That’s my policy.  If you like what you hear, my team and I would love to help you out with your mortgage!  Our contact information is on the top right hand side of this page!

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