How improving mortgage rates drive purchasing power

Are you in the market for a new home? You might want to take advantage of the current trend in interest rates. In recent weeks, interest rates have come down by about half a percent, which can mean a significant increase in your purchasing power. If you are pre-approved with a mortgage company and looking for a set purchase price, you might find that you can now afford a higher-priced home for the same payment…

For example, if you were previously capped at a $700,000 purchase price for a 25% down conventional 30-year fixed-rate mortgage loan scenario, and your pre-approved interest rate was 7.25%, you might now be eligible for an interest rate around mid-6 %. This reduction in interest rate might mean that your maximum purchase price is now around $720,000.

This is great news for families who are looking to purchase a new home. The reduction in interest rate can lead to a reduction in your monthly payment, which can make a significant difference in your budget. If interest rates continue to come down, your purchasing power will continue to rise, giving you more options and allowing you to potentially change the type of home you want and even the neighborhood you want to live in.

However, be aware that other buyers also now have more purchasing power, which can lead to a bidding war for the same property, potentially driving the price up. So, if you find a house that you like and can justify the payment, make an offer with your real estate agent. Remember, most purchase contracts these days have contingencies, including loan and appraisal contingencies, that allow you to get out of the transaction if things don’t go according to plan.

In conclusion, the current trend in interest rates can be a great opportunity for families who are looking to purchase a new home. It can increase your purchasing power and give you more options. However, it’s essential to work with a local loan officer and a real estate agent who can help you navigate this process and identify opportunities that can make your home purchase more friendly and effective.

Looking to buy a home? Get a no cost quote today.

RELATED MORTGAGE ADVICE FROM SCOTT SHELDON

Cartoon-style image showing a happy homebuyer and a smiling house running through a green maze labeled “Mortgage.” The homebuyer holds a sign saying “Credit & Income,” and the house holds one saying “Appraisal.” A “Loan Denied” barricade marks an obstacle along the path. The scene is bright, humorous, and optimistic, symbolizing overcoming hurdles in the mortgage process.

The Only Two Real Obstacles in the Loan Process: Credit/Income and Appraisal

For many homebuyers, getting a mortgage can feel like navigating a maze of paperwork and…

Mortgage interest rate chart showing rates briefly dip on policy news, then fall further during recession, job losses, and rising unemploymen

When Mortgage Rates Actually Fall (And Why That Hasn’t Happened Yet)

Over the past week, there has been a lot of noise around mortgage rates. Headlines…

Scott Sheldon's The Mortgage FIles Blog

Buying a Home While Married in a Community Property State

Buying a home is exciting—but if you’re married and live in a community property state,…

Notes: Roxanne Durney has been set up for a cash-out refinance on a property that is currently owned free and clear. Income has been verified with a 2024 pay stub; however, the 2023 W-2 is still needed. Homeowners insurance is currently estimated at $200/month and will need to be verified with an insurance document. The file is set up with a $250,000 loan amount at 56% LTV. DTI is 40%. I am holding off on running DU until tomorrow morning to avoid triggering disclosures, pending confirmation of a time for Scott to connect with the borrower.

Should You Use Down Payment Assistance or Just Go With 3.5% Down on an FHA Loan?

Buying a home is exciting — but it also comes with decisions that matter. One…

View More from The Mortgage Files:

begin your mortgage journey with sonoma county mortgages

Let us make your mortgage experience easy. Trust our expertise to get you your best mortgage rate. Click below to start turning your home dreams into reality today!