According to Smith, mortgage rates could move lower slowly and steadily, but numerous risks could also keep rates elevated. Fannie Mae now expects rates around 6.1% by the end of 2025 and 5.8% by the end of 2026.

Mortgage rates are down and still under 7%. Today’s national average on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is 6.75%, according to Bankrate. If you choose a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage, the average rate is 5.

Right now buyers have less competition, more options, and more time to consider those options,” one pro tells us