What You Should Do Before Interest Rates Rise

In todays real estate market, mortgage interest rates are near record lows. If you've been in your current home for several years and haven't refinanced lately, there's a good chance you have a mortgage with an interest rate higher than todays average. Here are some options you should consider if you want to take advantage of todays current low rates before they rise.

Sell and Move Up (or Downsize)

Many of todays homeowners are rethinking what they need in a home and redefining what their dream home means. For some, continued remote work is bringing about the need for additional space. For others, moving to a lower cost-of-living area or downsizing may be great options. If you're considering either of these, there may not be a better time to move. Here's why.

The chart below shows average mortgage rates by decade compared to where they are today:Todays rates are below 3%, but experts forecast rates to rise over the next few years.

If the interest rate on your current mortgage is higher than todays average, take advantage of this opportunity by making a move and securing a lower rate. Lower rates mean you may be able to get more house for your money and still have a lower monthly mortgage payment than you might expect.

Waiting, however, might mean you miss out on this historic opportunity. Below is a chart showing how your monthly payment will change if you buy a home as mortgage rates increase:

Breaking It All Down:

Using the chart above, lets look at the breakdown of a 300,000 mortgage:

• When mortgage rates rise, so does the monthly payment you can secure.
• Even the smallest increase in rates can make a difference in your monthly mortgage payment.
• As interest rates rise, you'll need to look at a lower-priced home to try and keep the same target monthly payment, meaning you may end up with less home for your money.

No matter what, whether you're looking to make a move up or downsize to a home that better suits your needs, now is the time. Even a small change in interest rates can have a big impact on your purchasing power.

Refinance

If making a move right now still doesn't feel right for you, consider refinancing. With the current low mortgage rates, refinancing is a great option if you're looking to lower your monthly payments and stay in your current home.

Bottom Line

Take advantage of todays low rates before they begin to rise. Whether you're thinking about moving up, downsizing, or refinancing, lets connect today to discuss which option is best for you.

Content previously posted on Keeping Current Matters