Rate Snapshot — Early September 2025
- The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has dipped to around 6.50% (weekly average), marking its lowest level since October 2024 . - Some days even saw rates as low as 6.29%, driven by weak jobs data . - As of September 9, survey data shows the average at about 6.423% for borrowers with excellent credit profiles, a bit lower than the weekly average . How to Get a Better Mortgage Rate Now! 1. Shop Around & Compare Offers Obtain quotes from multiple lenders—banks, credit unions, mortgage brokers, and online providers—to find the most competitive rates . 2. Improve Your Credit Score Even a modest boost in credit can yield meaningful savings. Aim for a score of 780+ to access the lowest rates . 3. Increase Your Down Payment A higher down payment lowers your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, which typically translates into better rates . 4. Use Discount Points Pay upfront mortgage points (typically 1% of loan amount per point) to reduce your long-term interest rate—e.g., one point might shave off ~0.25% . 5. Optimize Rate Lock Period Lock in your rate within a tight closing window. Avoid elongated lock periods which can raise rates—doubling a lock from 30 to 45 days may increase your rate . 6. Consider a Float-Down Option If you lock now but rates later fall further, a float-down feature may allow you to switch to the better rate before closing . 7. Leverage First-Time Home Buyer Programs If eligible, explore government or state-level programs that offer rate discounts, down payment help, or other incentives . 8. Weigh Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs) ARMs (e.g., 5/1 or 7/1 products) generally offer lower initial rates than 30-year fixed, though they carry rate reset risk . 9. Refinancing with Strong Leverage Refinance only if today’s rate is at least 0.5–1% lower than your current mortgage, to ensure the savings outweigh closing costs . - Use FHA or VA streamline refinance if applicable—they offer faster, lower-cost refinances by reusing original paperwork .