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Multiple important refinance rates receded today. Both 15-year fixed and 30-year fixed refinances saw their average rates drop. At the same time, average rates for 10-year fixed refinances also decreased. Refinance interest rates are never set in stone — but rates have been the lowest they’ve been in years. Because of this, right now is a great time for homeowners to get a good refinance rate. But as always, make sure to first think about your personal goals and circumstances before refinancing, and shop around for a lender who can best meet your needs.
30-year fixed-rate refinance
For 30-year fixed refinances, the average rate is currently at 3.13%, a decrease of 3 basis points compared to one week ago. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) One reason to refinance to a 30-year fixed loan from a shorter loan term is to lower your monthly payment. Because of this, a 30-year refinance can be a good idea if you’re having trouble making your monthly payments. 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 average 15-year fixed refinance rate right now is 2.44%, a decrease of 1 basis point over last week. A 15-year fixed refinance will most likely raise your monthly payment compared to a 30-year loan. However, you’ll also be able to pay off your loan quicker, saving you money over the life of the loan. Interest rates for a 15-year refinance also tend to be lower than that of a 30-year refinance, so you’ll save even more in the long run.
10-year fixed-rate refinance
The average 10-year fixed refinance rate right now is 2.42%, a decrease of 1 basis points over last week. You’ll pay more every month with a ten-year fixed refinance compared to a 30-year or 15-year refinance — but you’ll also have a lower interest rate. A 10-year refinance can help you pay off your house much faster and save on interest in the long run. Just be sure to carefully consider your budget and current financial situation to make sure that you can afford a 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 across the country:
Average refinance interest rates
| Product | Rate | A week ago | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-year fixed refi | 3.13% | 3.16% | -0.03 |
| 15-year fixed refi | 2.44% | 2.45% | -0.01 |
| 10-year fixed refi | 2.42% | 2.43% | -0.01 |
Rates as of Nov. 8, 2021.
How to shop for refinance rates
It’s important to understand that the rates advertised online may not apply to you. Your interest rate will be influenced by market conditions as well as your credit history and application.
To get the best interest rates, you’ll typically need a high credit score, low credit utilization ratio, and a history of making consistent and on-time payments. 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. And don’t forget about fees and closing costs which may cost a hefty amount upfront.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, a lot of lenders have been stricter with who they approve for a loan. If you have a low credit score or a poor credit history, you might have trouble getting a refinance at the lowest interest rates.
To get the best refinance rates, you’ll first want to make your application as strong as possible. The best way to improve your credit ratings is to get your finances in order, use credit responsibly, and monitor your credit regularly. Also be sure to compare offers from multiple lenders in order to get the best rate.
When to consider a mortgage refinance
Most people refinance because the market interest rates are lower than their current rates or because they want to change their loan term. 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.
Note that some lenders have tightened their requirements since the beginning of the pandemic. If you don’t have a solid credit score, you may not qualify for the best rate. Refinancing at a lower interest rate can save you money in the long run and help you pay off your loan sooner. But a careful cost-benefit analysis is necessary to confirm that doing so makes sense.