After what feels like an eternity of sky-high mortgage rates, Americans are on the edge of their seats as the Fed is expected to finally cut interest rates in late 2024. Naturally, it begs the question: Should I lock my mortgage rate today?
A mortgage rate lock is like hitting “pause” on your rate while the rest of the financial world spins. But like anything in real estate, timing is everything and if you don’t know what you’re doing, you could end up paying way more than you should.
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What is a mortgage rate lock and how does it work?
A mortgage rate lock is a contractual agreement between you and your lender that guarantees a specific interest rate for a set period of time. This is crucial because interest rates can fluctuate daily, and a rate lock protects you from potential increases that could make your mortgage more expensive.
If rates shoot up, you’re golden because your locked-in rate won’t change. As experts expect the Fed to slash interest rates in the coming months, many people are considering when to lock in a mortgage rate.
If interest rates drop, you may have the option to renegotiate or refinance your mortgage to take advantage of lower rates. That said, a lot of the specifics depend on your contract with your lender.
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Why do mortgage rates change?
Mortgage rates are like the stock market – they fluctuate and for a lot of reasons. Understanding these can give you an edge when deciding to lock in your rate.
- Economic conditions: When the economy grows, rates rise because people spend more. But during slowdowns or recessions, rates often drop to stimulate borrowing.
- Federal Reserve policies: When the Federal Reserve adjusts interest rates (which it does to control inflation), mortgage rates typically follow suit. If the Fed raises rates, expect mortgage rates to climb.
- Market demand: With high demand for mortgages, lenders might raise rates. Conversely, when demand is low, lenders lower rates to attract more buyers.
- Bond market: Mortgage rates are tied to the bond market. When bond prices increase, mortgage rates usually decrease and vice versa. This is because mortgages compete with bonds for investors’ dollars.
So, when you’re ready to commit, make sure you’re keeping an eye on these moving pieces.
What’s the best day to lock in mortgage rate?
The timing of when you lock your mortgage rate depends largely on your lender. Some lenders let you lock in once your loan is preapproved, while others may require identifying a property first. You can lock anytime from application to just before closing. If you think rates are going up, lock sooner rather than later. But if they’re trending down, you might want to wait.
How long can you lock in a mortgage rate?
Rate locks typically last 30 to 60 days, but some can extend up to 120 days. The longer you lock, the more you might pay. For example, if you’re working with a 60-day lock, your lender expects the loan to close within that window. If the process drags on past your lock period, you could lose your locked-in rate and be forced to renegotiate at a higher rate.
Can you extend your mortgage rate lock?
Yes, you can usually extend your rate lock, but it will cost you. Lenders often charge a fee ranging from 0.125% to 0.375% of your loan amount. For example, extending your lock on a $200,000 loan could cost you up to $750. Still, that might be cheaper than risking a higher rate if delays push you past your lock period.
Can a mortgage lender void your rate lock?
Lenders generally can’t void your rate lock unless something drastic changes on your end, like your credit score taking a nose-dive, your job situation changing and the property’s value coming in lower than expected. Your rate lock is secure as long as everything stays consistent with your application. But always read the fine print – because nobody likes nasty surprises.
How much does a rate lock cost?
The cost to lock in a rate can vary depending on the length of the lock and market conditions. Most 30- to 60-day locks are free, but longer-term ones in volatile markets could cost you. For example, locking in a rate for 90 days could come with a fee of 0.25% of the loan amount. On a $300,000 loan, that’s an additional $750. Always check with your lender to know what you’re signing up for.
How to lock in a mortgage rate
Ready to lock in your rate? Here’s how to do it like a pro:
- Get preapproved: Your lender needs to know you’re a serious buyer before they’ll offer a rate lock.
- Watch market trends: Timing is key. Lock when rates are low, but be mindful of how long you need the lock to last.
- Request a rate lock from your lender: Once ready, formally request one. Make sure you understand how long the lock lasts.
- Consider a float-down option: If you think rates might drop, ask about adding a float-down option to your rate lock.
- Monitor your loan process: Watch the closing timeline. If you won’t close before the lock expires, talk to your lender about an extension.
Lock in before it’s gone
A mortgage rate lock can be your best friend in an unpredictable market. It protects you from rising rates and offers peace of mind during the homebuying process. Just ensure you know the terms, the costs and when to strike for the best deal. And if you’re smart about it, that locked-in rate could save you a boatload in the long run.
FAQ
Can you lock in a mortgage rate before you find a house?
Yes, some lenders offer rate locks before you’ve found a property, but the specifics depend on the lender.
Can you negotiate the mortgage rate after locking?
No, once you’ve locked your rate, it’s locked unless you have a float-down provision.
What happens if you lock in a mortgage rate and the rate goes down?
If you don’t have a float-down provision, you’ll be stuck with your locked-in rate – even if rates drop.
