Mortgage rates have played a significant role in shaping the housing market over the past couple of years, impacting affordability for many prospective buyers. The good news? There’s hope on the horizon as mortgage rates have recently started to decline. In fact, according to Freddie Mac, rates have hit their lowest point of 2024, sparking renewed interest in the housing market. If you’re considering buying a home, you may be wondering: how much lower will these rates go? Here’s what the experts are saying and how you can prepare.
Expert Projections for Mortgage Rates
The general consensus among experts is that mortgage rates are likely to continue their downward trend, especially as inflation eases and the economy cools. However, it’s important to note that while the overall trend is downward, there will be some volatility along the way as new economic data is released.
It’s easy to get caught up in the short-term fluctuations, but the key is to focus on the bigger picture. Rates are still down roughly a full percentage point from their recent peak in May. The broader trend suggests that more favorable rates are on the horizon, though the timing and extent of these decreases will largely depend on economic conditions and decisions made by the Federal Reserve.
Many experts have already started revising their mortgage rate forecasts for 2024 to reflect a more optimistic outlook. For instance, Realtor.com recently updated their projections, stating:
“Mortgage rates have been revised slightly lower as signals from the economy suggest that it will be appropriate for the Fed to begin to cut its Federal Funds rate in 2024. Our yearly mortgage rate average forecast is down to 6.7%, and we revised our year-end forecast to 6.3% from 6.5%.”
This revision indicates that experts believe rates could drop into the low 6% range in the coming months, creating a more favorable environment for homebuyers.
Know Your Target Number for Mortgage Rates
If you’ve been waiting for mortgage rates to drop before entering the housing market, now is the time to consider what your target number is. With rates already trending downward, it’s important to have a clear idea of what rate will make you comfortable enough to jump back in. As Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, explains:
“The decline in mortgage rates does increase prospective homebuyers’ purchasing power and should begin to pique their interest in making a move.”
This means that lower rates can significantly enhance your buying power, allowing you to afford a more expensive home or save on your monthly payments. But the key is determining your personal threshold. Ask yourself: What rate am I waiting for? Is it 6.25%, 6.0%, or perhaps even lower at 5.99%?
Once you’ve identified your target rate, you don’t need to constantly monitor the market yourself. Instead, consider partnering with a local real estate professional who can keep an eye on the market for you. They’ll not only keep you updated on current trends but also notify you when rates hit your desired level. This proactive approach ensures that you’re ready to act as soon as the market aligns with your financial goals.
The Bottom Line
Mortgage rates are a critical factor in the homebuying process, and their recent decline presents an opportunity for prospective buyers. If you’ve been holding off on purchasing a home due to higher rates, now is the time to consider what rate would make you comfortable enough to move forward.
Once you’ve set your target rate, connect with a real estate professional who can guide you through the process. They’ll keep you informed, offer expert advice, and help you seize the opportunity when the market conditions are right. With rates on a downward trend, the path to homeownership could soon become more accessible—making it an ideal time to prepare for your next move.