Despite the recent rise in mortgage rates, our market is still offering great opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Here’s why.
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If you're concerned about the recent rise in mortgage rates, I want to reassure you — things are much better than they seem.
Yes, mortgage rates have certainly risen since 2016. From a low of 3.44% last August, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 4.12% in January and hovered just slightly below that into February. This increase means you’d be paying almost $100 more each month on a $250,000 purchase. That's a sizeable chunk of change, and it's got some people nervous
However, the current rise in rates is unlikely to affect the real estate market anytime soon. Why?
The rates we saw last year were an all-time record low. Historically, rates have been far higher. Ten years ago, the same 30-year mortgage rate stood at 6.34%. For much of the 90s, rates hovered between 7% and 10%. Throughout the 80s, average annual rates never dipped below 10%. In 1982, when I actually purchased a home, they were as high as 16%.
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Current rates are still at historically low levels.
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When viewed in this context, it's clear that current mortgage rates are still very, very low, and the real estate market is actually in a very good place. What does this mean for you? If you are looking to buy, the current low rates offer a great opportunity to afford an amazing home. If you're looking to sell, you are in a great position to do so quickly and for a top price. You see, last December did see a drop in home sales — but not because of any rise in mortgage rates. Instead, this slowdown was due to a constrained supply of new homes. In fact, there are plenty of eager buyers around our area, and prices continue to rise. If you want to discuss upcoming trends in home buying or selling or you need a referral to a lender, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re here to help you.
