September 18, 2026

As of September 18, 2026, the mortgage market continues to experience upward pressure. The national average for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was reported at 6.95% as of September 17, representing an increase from the previous week’s average of 6.76%. This recent movement reflects a broader trend of volatility as the housing market navigates the current economic environment.

For borrowers looking at specific loan products, annual percentage rates (APR) vary based on the lender and loan type. Recent market data indicates that 30-year fixed-rate conforming mortgages are currently seeing APRs often hovering above 7%. For instance, some providers are listing 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with an APR of 7.511%, while government-backed alternatives such as 30-year FHA loans are showing an APR of approximately 7.494%. Meanwhile, 30-year VA loans are averaging an APR closer to 7.025%.

In addition to 30-year options, shorter-term financing remains a point of interest for many homeowners. The average rate for a 15-year fixed-rate conforming mortgage loan is currently trending around 6.320%. These figures underscore the importance of comparing personalized offers from multiple lenders, as individual APRs can fluctuate significantly based on credit score, down payment size, and specific loan terms offered by various financial institutions.

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Six Places to Start

Whatever stage you're at — buying your first home, comparing offers, or just trying to avoid a bad deal — one of these guides covers it.

Mortgage Basics 101

Start here — the core terms, loan types, and steps every mortgage borrower should understand first.

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Finding Your Best Mortgage Deal

Compare rates, lenders, and loan structures the right way so you don't leave money on the table.

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First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Everything a first-time buyer needs to know, from saving for a down payment to closing day.

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Avoiding Rip-Offs and Bad Terms

Spot predatory fees, junk charges, and unfavorable terms before they cost you thousands down the road.

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Working with Lenders and Brokers

What a broker actually does, how to vet one, and what to expect throughout the process.

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Managing Mortgage Payments

Practical strategies for staying on top of payments, refinancing wisely, and paying down your loan faster.

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Home Price
$50K$2M
Down Payment — 20%
3%50%
Loan Term
Annual Interest Rate (%)
Est. Monthly Payment
$2,846
Principal & Interest $2,496
Est. Property Tax $281
Est. Insurance $69
Payment Breakdown
Monthly $2,846
Principal
$729 / mo
25.6%
Interest
$1,767 / mo
62.1%
Property Tax
$281 / mo
9.9%
Insurance
$69 / mo
2.4%
Amortization Summary
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Frequently Asked Questions

Straight answers to the questions we hear most.

The absolute minimum depends on the loan program:
Conventional Loan: Typically 620
FHA Loan: 500 (with 10% down) or 580 (with 3.5% down)
VA Loan: Varies by lender, but often 620
USDA Loan: Varies by lender, but often 640

It’s important to note that these are minimums, and a higher score will always secure better terms.

Eligibility depends on your specific circumstances and type of loan. Generally, you may be eligible if you have experienced a financial hardship such as job loss, a reduction in income, a medical emergency, or a natural disaster. Borrowers with government-backed loans (like FHA, VA, or USDA loans) often have specific forbearance programs available.

A fixed-rate mortgage is often the best choice for someone who:
Plans to stay in their home long-term (e.g., 10+ years).
Values stability, predictability, and peace of mind over potential initial savings.
Has a fixed income and needs to ensure their housing costs will not rise.

A VA loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible military service members, veterans, and surviving spouses.
Key Benefits:
$0 Down Payment: No down payment is required in most cases.
No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike FHA and low-down-payment conventional loans, VA loans do not require monthly PMI.
Competitive Interest Rates: Typically offer lower rates than conventional or FHA loans.
Flexible Credit Guidelines: Often more forgiving of past credit issues.

Discount points are an upfront fee you pay to the lender at closing to reduce your interest rate. Each point typically costs 1% of your loan amount and lowers your rate by a certain percentage (e.g., 0.25%). This is a form of “buying down” your rate and can be a good strategy if you plan to stay in the home long enough for the monthly savings to exceed the upfront cost.