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A number of benchmark mortgage refinance rates ticked up today. The average rate for a 15-year fixed refinance decreased, while 30-year fixed-rate refinances saw growth. In addition, the average rate on 10-year fixed refinance inched up. Although refinance rates are dynamic, they have been lower than they’ve been in years. If you’re looking to lock in a good rate, now is a great time to refinance a house. But as always, make sure to first think about your personal goals and circumstances before you get a refinance, and compare offers to find a lender who can best meet your needs.
30-year fixed refinance rates
The current average interest rate for a 30-year refinance is 3.14%, an increase of 1 basis point compared to one week ago. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) Refinancing to a 30-year fixed loan from a shorter loan term can lower your monthly payments. If you’re having difficulties making your monthly payments currently, a 30-year refinance could be a good option for you. Be aware, though, that interest rates will typically be higher compared to a 15-year or 10-year refinance, and you’ll pay off your loan at a slower rate.
15-year fixed-rate refinance
The current average interest rate for 15-year refinances is 2.43%, a decrease of 2 basis points over last week. Refinancing to a 15-year fixed loan from a 30-year fixed loan will likely raise your monthly payment. But you’ll save more money over time, because you’re paying off your loan quicker. You’ll also typically get lower interest rates compared to a 30-year loan. This can help you save even more in the long run.
10-year fixed-rate refinance
The average 10-year fixed refinance rate right now is 2.41%, an increase of 4 basis points compared to one week ago. A 10-year refinance will typically feature the highest monthly payment of all refinance terms, but the lowest interest rate. A 10-year refinance can help you pay off your house much quicker and save on interest. However, you should analyze your budget and current financial situation to make sure you’ll be able to afford the higher monthly payment.
Where rates are headed
We track refinance rate trends using information collected by Bankrate, which is owned by CNET’s parent company. Here’s a table with the average refinance rates supplied by lenders nationwide:
Average refinance interest rates
| Product | Rate | Last week | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-year fixed refi | 3.14% | 3.13% | +0.01 |
| 15-year fixed refi | 2.43% | 2.45% | -0.02 |
| 10-year fixed refi | 2.41% | 2.37% | +0.04 |
Rates as of April 23, 2021.
How to find the best refinance rate
When looking for refinance rates, know that your specific rate may differ from those advertised online. Your interest rate will be influenced by market conditions as well as your credit history and application.
Generally, you’ll want a high credit score, low credit utilization ratio, and a history of making consistent and on-time payments in order to get the best interest rates. You can generally get a good feel for average interest rates online, but make sure to speak with a mortgage professional in order to see the specific rates you qualify for. Also remember to account for potential fees and closing costs.
You should also know that many lenders have had stricter requirements when it comes to approving loans in the past few months. As such, you may not qualify for a refinance — or a low rate — if you don’t have a solid credit rating.
To get the best refinance rates, you’ll first want to make your application as strong as possible. If you haven’t already, try to improve your credit by monitoring your credit reports, using credit responsibly, and managing your finances carefully. Don’t forget to speak with multiple lenders and shop around to find the best rate.
When should I refinance?
In order for a refinance to make sense, you’ll generally want to get a lower interest rate than your current rate. Aside from interest rates, changing your loan term is another reason to refinance. Interest rates in the past few months have been at historic lows, but that’s not the only thing you should be looking at when deciding whether to refinance.
To decide whether a refinance is right for you, consider all of the factors including how long you plan to stay in your current home, the length of your loan term and the amount of your monthly payment. Also keep in mind that closing costs and other fees may require an upfront investment.
Some lenders have tightened their requirements in recent months, so you may not be able to get a refinance at the posted interest rates — or even a refinance at all — if you don’t meet their standards.If you can get a lower interest rate or pay off your loan sooner, refinancing can be a great move. But carefully weigh the pros and cons first to make sure it’s a good fit for your situation.