December 30, 2016
Mortgage rates moved lower for a 3rd consecutive day to end 2016, bringing them to the lowest levels in more than 3 weeks for many lenders. December 8th was the last time rates were lower. As of yesterday, 4.25% regained the status of the “most prevalent” conventional 30yr fixed quote on top tier scenarios. Quite a few lenders remain at 4.375% and a scant few are down to 4.125%.
While this is all good news in the context of the past few weeks, 2016 nonetheless ends with one of the worst 2-month losing streaks in the history of mortgage rates. Specifically, the 5 weeks following the election were the worst 5 weeks on record, going back to the Spring of 1987.
For anyone considering locking or floating into the 3-day weekend (markets and mortgage lenders are closed on Monday, by the way), it’s important to remember that nothing about this week’s momentum is guaranteed to carry over into the new year.
To repeat yesterday’s thoughts, the recent gains are largely a result of the year-end bond trading environment. It’s not the same bond market that’s normally pulling the levers behind the scenes. Volume is lower and participants are in shorter supply. Trading considerations differ from other times of the year. It can all add up to unexpectedly quick moves and the APPEARANCE of new momentum that is subsequently erased in the new year.
Again, that’s not to say a big bounce toward higher rates is guaranteed next week, but it’s at least an equal possibility. Whatever the case, the past 2 days of gains can’t be viewed as the sign of a new trend.
Today’s Best-Execution Rates
|
Rate | Change | ||
| 30 Yr FRM | 4.21% | -0.02 | ||
| 15 Yr FRM | 3.40% | -0.02 | ||
| FHA 30 Year Fixed | 3.75% | +0.00 | ||
| Jumbo 30 Year Fixed | 4.23% | -0.02 |