09/18/2025
When the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates, it's lowering the Federal Funds Rate, the rate banks charge each other for overnight loans. This is a short-term interest rate, and it influences things like:
Credit card rates
Auto loans
Home equity lines of credit
Savings account etc
What About Mortgage Rates?
Mortgage rates especially 30-year fixed rates are not directly tied to the Fed Funds Rate. Instead, they are influenced by:
Bond Market Movements
Mortgage rates tend to follow the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury bond. When investors expect slower economic growth or lower inflation, they buy bonds, pushing yields down and mortgage rates often follow.
Inflation Expectations
If inflation is expected to stay high, mortgage rates may remain elevated even if the Fed cuts rates.
Investor Sentiment & Risk
Mortgage-backed securities (MBS) are bought and sold in financial markets. If investors demand higher returns due to uncertainty or risk, mortgage rates can stay high.
Timing & Lag
Even if the Fed cuts rates, mortgage rates may not drop immediately. Markets may have already priced in the cut, or other economic factors may be pushing rates in the opposite direction.
Dont use social media as a gage on if rates will get better. Its way more complicated and sadly even the most experienced loan officers dont get it, much less the media, who solely want to make headline news. Mortgage rates got worse yesterday.
Rather than fixating solely on interest rates, prioritize the act of purchasing a home. This strategic approach ensures that by the time you reach retirement, you will be free from the burden of mortgage payments. The quickest path to achieving this goal is to begin your journey as soon as you are financially ready, ideally after consulting with a mortgage expert. I am here to assist you, as I specialize in navigating both challenging and straightforward financial situations—after all, the latter is accessible to anyone.
If you are involved in real estate, it is crucial to surround yourself with knowledgeable professionals who can provide valuable insights tailored to today’s market. Seek out guidance rooted in reality rather than relying on misleading claims or social media for your understanding.
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