FED Rate and Mortgage Rates
January 30th, 2008 Categories: Real Estate News
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Historic Fed Move Cuts Both Ways for Borrowers
Hot on the heels of its surprise inter-session rate cut of 75 basis points last week, the Federal Reserve cut key interest rates again, the fifth straight cut since September 2007. In its statement last week, the Fed said it had decided to cut the federal funds rate “in view of a weakening of the economic outlook and increasing downside risks to growth.” In other words, economic data suggests the US is on the brink of recession, and the Fed is acting accordingly.
Who benefits from this cut?
If you have a loan that is directly tied to the Prime Rate, you will see an immediate benefit. Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) and variable rate charge cards are the types of loans that will have an interest rate reduction on their next statement.
What does this mean for long-term rates?
Long-term mortgage rates, the lowest we’ve experienced in years, could actually increase after today’s cut, based on historical performance and recent trends.
So if you’re waiting for long-term rates to fall further, don’t count on it. Your best chance to lock in the lowest rates since 2005 is now. Getting your application in process now will allow you to capture a great rate before it’s too late.
What REALLY moves mortgage rates?
Fixed-rate mortgage rates ARE NOT DIRECLTY TIED to the Fed interest rate moves. Instead, they tend to follow in the direction of other long-term government bond yields, such as the 10-year Treasury, which historically moves in accordance with the economic outlook and in advance of Fed actions. The performance of Mortgage Backed Securities, issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, is what really determines long-term mortgage rates.
How does the economic stimulus package fit into the picture?
The economic stimulus package from Congress and the White House could be a double-edged sword for borrowers. Combined with recent Fed actions, the package could create inflation and bring about higher long-term interest rates.
On the positive side, conforming loan limits are likely to be raised from the current $417,000 to upwards of $625,000. This means great potential savings for purchase and refinance candidates who live in 20 high-cost areas across the country.
What should you do next?
If you’re unsure how the rate-cut or the proposed legislation affects your mortgage, don’t worry, you’re not alone. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Give us a call right away. We’ll review your mortgage and see what, if anything, can or should be done to make the most of your individual financial goals and needs.
Rob Aubrey 801-694-4762
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are many great reasons to choose an FHA loan product:
1- You are a first-time homebuyer
2- You don’t have very much money to use as a down payment
3- You want the smallest monthly payments possible
4- You are worried about qualifying for the loan
5- You have a troubled credit history
If any of these describe your situation, then an FHA loan is for you.
FHA-insured loans offer many benefits and protections that you won’t
find in other loans including:
Small down payment: FHA loans have a low 3% down payment and the money can come from a family member, employer or charitable organization as a gift. Other loan programs don’t allow this.
Lower cost: FHA loans have competitive interest rates. Always compare an FHA loan with other loan types.
Easier qualification: Lenders may be more willing to give you loan terms that make it easier for you to qualify.
Troubled credit history: You don’t have to have perfect credit to get an FHA mortgage. In fact, even if you have had credit problems, such as a bankruptcy, it’s easier for you to qualify for an FHA loan than a conventional loan.