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[IMG: What is cash to close?]
[H2] What is cash to close?
Cash to close is the total amount you need to bring to closing day — not just your down payment. Here's exactly what it includes and how to calculate it.Read moreabout What is cash to close?
[IMG: Mortgage rates today: May 26, 2026]
[H2] Mortgage rates today: May 26, 2026
Today's mortgage rates, what's driving them, and what buyers and homeowners need to know right now. Updated daily by Better.Read moreabout Mortgage rates today: May 26, 2026
[IMG: 2-1 buydown mortgage: how it works and when to use it]
[H2] 2-1 buydown mortgage: how it works and when to use it
A 2-1 buydown temporarily lowers your mortgage rate for the first two years of your loan. Here's how the math works, who pays for it, and when it beats negotiating...Read moreabout 2-1 buydown mortgage: how it works and when to use it
[IMG: What Is a Rapid Rescore and How Does It Work?]
[H2] What Is a Rapid Rescore and How Does It Work?
Rapid Rescore can update a credit score faster than usual, helping home buyers who just paid off debt improve their credit score sooner.Read moreabout What Is a Rapid Rescore and How Does It Work?
[IMG: What is a nonconforming loan? How do they work?]
[H2] What is a nonconforming loan? How do they work?
Nonconforming loans can offer outside-the-box financing for some buyers, but most first-time homebuyers need the safety and stability of conventional and government-backed loans. Read moreabout What is a nonconforming loan? How do they work?
[IMG: What the 2026 housing bill means for homebuyers]
[H2] What the 2026 housing bill means for homebuyers
Congress just passed a sweeping housing bill. Here's what the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act actually means for buyers — FHA changes, the investor ban, and what's still uncertain.Read moreabout What the 2026 housing bill means for homebuyers
[IMG: Mortgage rates today: May 22, 2026]
[H2] Mortgage rates today: May 22, 2026
See today's mortgage rates for May 22, 2026 — what's moving them, what a 30-year fixed costs right now, and what homebuyers should know before locking.Read moreabout Mortgage rates today: May 22, 2026
[IMG: How To Keep the House in A Divorce Without Refinancing]
[H2] How To Keep the House in A Divorce Without Refinancing
You can keep the house in a divorce without refinancing, but it will require more than removing your ex from the deed. Here are some of the best solutions.Read moreabout How To Keep the House in A Divorce Without Refinancing
[IMG: Mortgage rates today: May 21, 2026]
[H2] Mortgage rates today: May 21, 2026
Here are today's mortgage rates for May 21, 2026, including what rates look like right now, what's moving them, and what buyers and homeowners can do next.Read moreabout Mortgage rates today: May 21, 2026
[IMG: Does the lender]
[H2] Does the lender's appraisal use the same comps as Zillow?
Zillow and your lender's appraiser both look at comps — but they're not using the same process, the same data, or the same standards. Here's what actually drives each number.Read moreabout Does the lender's appraisal use the same comps as Zillow?
[IMG: Mortgage rates today: May 20, 2026]
[H2] Mortgage rates today: May 20, 2026
What are mortgage rates today? See current 30-year, 15-year, and ARM rates for May 20, 2026 — and what's moving them right now.Read moreabout Mortgage rates today: May 20, 2026
[IMG: Mortgage rates today: May 19, 2026]
[H2] Mortgage rates today: May 19, 2026
What are mortgage rates today? Here's what 30-year, 15-year, and ARM rates look like on May 19, 2026 — and what's moving them right now.Read moreabout Mortgage rates today: May 19, 2026
[IMG: Multigenerational home buying: how to qualify for a mortgage as a family]
[H2] Multigenerational home buying: how to qualify for a mortgage as a family
More families are buying homes together to save money. Here's how pooling income, adding an ADU, and structuring your purchase correctly affects what you can qualify for.Read moreabout Multigenerational home buying: how to qualify for a mortgage as a family
[IMG: How accurate is Zillow]
[H2] How accurate is Zillow's Zestimate when applying for a mortgage?
A Zestimate won't get you a mortgage — a licensed appraisal will. Learn how accurate Zillow's estimates are, why lenders ignore them, and what actually determines your home's value.Read moreabout How accurate is Zillow's Zestimate when applying for a mortgage?
[IMG: First-time homebuyer tax credit 2026: what]
[H2] First-time homebuyer tax credit 2026: what's in Congress and what to do now
A new first-time homebuyer tax credit bill was introduced in Congress in 2026. Here's what it is, who would qualify, and what buyers can use right now.Read moreabout First-time homebuyer tax credit 2026: what's in Congress and what to do now
[IMG: Home equity loan closing costs: what you]
[H2] Home equity loan closing costs: what you'll pay and how to lower them
Home equity loan closing costs run 2%–5% of your loan amount. Here's every fee broken down, what's negotiable, and how to reduce or eliminate what you pay.Read moreabout Home equity loan closing costs: what you'll pay and how to lower them
[IMG: Income needed for a $500K mortgage: How can you afford it?]
[H2] Income needed for a $500K mortgage: How can you afford it?
To afford a $500K mortgage in 2026, most buyers need $120,000–$165,000/year. See income requirements by down payment, loan type, and debt load — with scenarios at today's 6.57% rate.Read moreabout Income needed for a $500K mortgage: How can you afford it?
[IMG: Will home prices drop in 2026? What 34 months of rising prices means for buyers]
[H2] Will home prices drop in 2026? What 34 months of rising prices means for buyers
Home prices have risen for 34 consecutive months through April 2026. Here's what the data says about whether prices will fall — and what waiting is actually costing buyers on...Read moreabout Will home prices drop in 2026? What 34 months of rising prices means for buyers
[IMG: Mortgage rates today — May 15, 2026]
[H2] Mortgage rates today — May 15, 2026
Mortgage rates are at 6-week highs as of May 15, 2026. See today's 30-year, 15-year, and ARM averages — and what's driving rates higher this week.Read moreabout Mortgage rates today — May 15, 2026
[IMG: What is a mortgage broker?]
[H2] What is a mortgage broker?
A mortgage broker shops lenders on your behalf — but they're not your only option. Learn how mortgage brokers work, how they get paid, and how to decide if you...Read moreabout What is a mortgage broker?
[IMG: Mortgage APR costs: How To calculate and lower them]
[H2] Mortgage APR costs: How To calculate and lower them
Understanding APR costs helps you avoid hidden mortgage fees. Learn key fees, rates, and tips to compare and secure the best loan for your needs.Read moreabout Mortgage APR costs: How To calculate and lower them
[IMG: How to remove someone from a mortgage]
[H2] How to remove someone from a mortgage
Learn how to remove someone from a mortgage with or without refinancing. Explore pros and cons, costs, FAQs, and common methods to simplify the process.Read moreabout How to remove someone from a mortgage
[IMG: Jobs report may be the last for a while: What this means for mortgage borrowers]
[H2] Jobs report may be the last for a while: What this means for mortgage borrowers
With the government shutdown canceling economic data reports, economists will have to make more blindfolded decisions that affect mortgage borrowers.Read moreabout Jobs report may be the last for a while: What this means for mortgage borrowers
[IMG: What is down payment assistance?]
[H2] What is down payment assistance?
What is down payment assistance? Learn how it works, find types and eligibility, plus where to search, how to apply, and practical alternatives today.Read moreabout What is down payment assistance?
[IMG: VA loan vs FHA: key insights to make the right choice]
[H2] VA loan vs FHA: key insights to make the right choice
Compare VA loan vs FHA to see eligibility, down payment rules, pros, cons, and more. Learn which mortgage option works best for your homebuying needs.Read moreabout VA loan vs FHA: key insights to make the right choice
[IMG: How to avoid tax on a second home: Learn rules and tips]
[H2] How to avoid tax on a second home: Learn rules and tips
Learn how to avoid tax on a second home: key deductions, personal vs rental rules, capital gains, and legal strategies to lower taxes with smart planning.Read moreabout How to avoid tax on a second home: Learn rules and tips
[IMG: What happens to mortgage rates in a government shutdown]
[H2] What happens to mortgage rates in a government shutdown
Government shutdowns can create paradox for borrowers. Rates may decline, but processing may stall as lenders face bottlenecks in a reduction of government support.Read moreabout What happens to mortgage rates in a government shutdown
[IMG: Airbnb investment property: Tips on how to do it right]
[H2] Airbnb investment property: Tips on how to do it right
Learn how to evaluate, finance, and manage an Airbnb investment property. Understand their pros and cons, the steps to buy one, tips, alternatives, and FAQs.Read moreabout Airbnb investment property: Tips on how to do it right
[IMG: What is an interest-only mortgage? How to qualify for one]
[H2] What is an interest-only mortgage? How to qualify for one
Learn how an interest-only mortgage works, see pros and cons, qualification criteria, and alternatives to decide if it’s the right option for home financing.Read moreabout What is an interest-only mortgage? How to qualify for one
[IMG: What is a HUD home? Buying process, benefits, and risks]
[H2] What is a HUD home? Buying process, benefits, and risks
What is a HUD home? Learn how the buying process works, and the benefits and risks to consider so you can spot value and opportunities with confidence.Read moreabout What is a HUD home? Buying process, benefits, and risks
[IMG: Buying a short-sale home: Process, risks, and benefits]
[H2] Buying a short-sale home: Process, risks, and benefits
Buying a short-sale home can save you money if you know the process. Learn key steps, expert tips, and strategies to secure a smooth, successful purchase.Read moreabout Buying a short-sale home: Process, risks, and benefits
[IMG: How does a VA cash-out refinance work? A complete guide]
[H2] How does a VA cash-out refinance work? A complete guide
How does a VA cash-out refinance work? Learn key requirements, costs, pros, cons, and scenarios when tapping your home equity may be a smart move for Veterans.Read moreabout How does a VA cash-out refinance work? A complete guide
[IMG: How long does the seller have to respond to an offer on a house?]
[H2] How long does the seller have to respond to an offer on a house?
How long does a seller have to respond to an offer on a house? Understand why delays happen, key signs of acceptance, and ways to make your offer stronger.
Read moreabout How long does the seller have to respond to an offer on a house?
[IMG: VA loan pros and cons: Is this the right choice for you?]
[H2] VA loan pros and cons: Is this the right choice for you?
Explore VA loan pros and cons to see if it’s the right mortgage choice. Learn about benefits, drawbacks, eligibility, and when a VA loan works best for you.Read moreabout VA loan pros and cons: Is this the right choice for you?
[IMG: What is a VA appraisal: How they work and requirements]
[H2] What is a VA appraisal: How they work and requirements
Understand what a VA appraisal is, how it works, fees, property requirements, and what to do if the appraisal comes in low when buying with a VA loan.Read moreabout What is a VA appraisal: How they work and requirements
[IMG: Who pays Realtor fees: a guide for buyers and sellers]
[H2] Who pays Realtor fees: a guide for buyers and sellers
Learn who pays Relator fees, how commissions work, what’s negotiable, and how FSBO impacts buyer’s agent costs. Clear FAQs help buyers and sellers plan.Read moreabout Who pays Realtor fees: a guide for buyers and sellers
[IMG: What is a VA cash-out refinance? Key facts for homeowners]
[H2] What is a VA cash-out refinance? Key facts for homeowners
What is a VA cash-out refinance? Explore how it works, its main benefits, and eligibility requirements so you can decide if it’s the right choice.Read moreabout What is a VA cash-out refinance? Key facts for homeowners
[IMG: Escrow refund: What is it & how does it work in real estate?]
[H2] Escrow refund: What is it & how does it work in real estate?
Learn what an escrow refund is, why you might get one after an escrow analysis, how the payout works, smart ways to use it, and other common FAQs.Read moreabout Escrow refund: What is it & how does it work in real estate?
[IMG: How many times can you use a VA loan? Scenarios and more]
[H2] How many times can you use a VA loan? Scenarios and more
Learn how many times you can use a VA loan, the benefits of reusing it, and key situations where getting a second VA loan could be the right choice for...Read moreabout How many times can you use a VA loan? Scenarios and more
[IMG: Trump signs trigger-leads reform into law]
[H2] Trump signs trigger-leads reform into law
A new law bans mortgage trigger leads, protecting home buyers from spam and giving them more control over their data. Here’s what it means for you.Read moreabout Trump signs trigger-leads reform into lawNeed something else? You can find more info in our FAQ
[H2] Related FAQs
What is the definition of a condominium?Learn what a condo is, how ownership of the common areas on the building works, and what shared responsibilities come with living in a multi-unit development. Read moreLearn what a condo is, how ownership of the common areas on the building works, and what shared responsibilities come with living in a multi-unit development. Read moreCan I add a co-borrower to my refinance application?Learn whether adding a co-borrower to your refinance application is the right call for you. Read moreLearn whether adding a co-borrower to your refinance application is the right call for you. Read moreWhat do comparable sales mean in real estate valuations?What does comparable sale mean in real estate? Discover how comps play a key role in home valuations and why they matter when buying or selling property. Read moreWhat does comparable sale mean in real estate? Discover how comps play a key role in home valuations and why they matter when buying or selling property. Read moreVisit our learning center

[H1] Mortgage rates today
Here are today’s mortgage rates in . Get a personalized quote for your area in as little as 3 minutes, with no impact to your credit score.See personalized ratesMortgagePurchaseRefinanceVA LoansHome equityHome Equity LoansHELOCCash-out RefinanceHave another rate? Let us match it →The above rates are estimated rates current as of: Rates and other loan terms are subject to lender approval and not guaranteed.
[IMG: The difference between “fixed rate” and “adjustable”]
1:37The difference between “fixed rate” and “adjustable”
[IMG: What are points and credits?]
1:16What are points and credits?
[H2] Mortgage rates today
Mortgage rates are a crucial factor to consider when buying a home or refinancing an existing mortgage. These rates decide how much interest lenders charge you to borrow money, and affect your total loan cost. Knowing your mortgage rate is key for making informed financial decisions and securing the best deal.
[H2] What are today's interest rates and why do they matter?
To grasp the importance of mortgage rates, let's start by clarifying what they are. Mortgage rates refer to the current interest rates that lenders offer on mortgage loans. Rates can change based on factors like the economy, Federal Reserve policies, and market expectations.Your rate impacts the home's affordability and the total interest paid over the loan's life. That's why it's crucial for homebuyers or those refinancing to monitor the current mortgage rates.When it comes to mortgage loans, the lower the interest rate, the lower your monthly payment will be. For example, the monthly principal and interest payment (not including taxes and insurance premiums) on a $350,000, 30-year fixed mortgage at 6% interest is $2,098, compared to a monthly payment of $1,987 at 5.5% interest.
[H2] Factors that affect your current mortgage rate
Your mortgage rate is influenced by several personal and economic factors. Here are some of the key elements that impact the rate you receive:Credit score: Your credit score and credit history play a significant role in determining the interest rate you qualify for. Lenders use your credit score to assess your creditworthiness and the risk of lending to you. Higher credit scores generally result in lower interest rates, while lower credit scores generally lead to higher rates.Down payment: Making a 20% or higher down payment can lower your interest rate, because lenders may see higher levels of equity in the property as a lower risk.Loan term: Loan term is the length of time over which you repay your mortgage. Shorter-term mortgages, like 15 year terms, often come with lower interest rates and less total interest, but higher monthly payments than longer-term mortgages, like 30 year terms, because you pay off a shorter loan term faster.Loan type: The type of loan you choose, such as a conforming loan or an FHA loan, can also impact your interest rate. There are many different loan types with different benefits and qualification criteria. Read up on the types of mortgage loans to understand which might be best for you.
[IMG: Mortgage rates | Types of mortgages]
The Fed: The actions of the Federal Reserve can influence mortgage rates as well. The Federal Reserve, the central bank of the United States, sets the monetary policies that affect interest rates. Their decision to raise or lower rates, known as rate cuts, can have an impact on mortgage rates.Understanding these factors can help you navigate the mortgage process and secure a rate that aligns with your financial goals. For more tips on comparing mortgage offers, see our guide.Click to see our 2024 mortgage rates housing market forecast and analysis.
[H2] How to choose a mortgage rate
Choosing the right mortgage rate is crucial for ensuring that you get the best deal on your home loan. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a mortgage rate:
[H3] Fixed versus adjustable mortgage
Understanding the different types of mortgage rates is the first step in the decision-making process. Fixed-rate mortgages have a stable interest rate throughout the loan term, while adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) have rates that can fluctuate after an initial fixed period.There are pros and cons to each type so it's best to determine which one is the best fit for your financial goals.
[H3] Research different lenders
Comparing rates from different lenders is essential to ensure that you secure the most competitive interest rate. Obtain rate quotes from multiple lenders and mortgage brokers to find the best deal. Don't forget to take into account the loan officer's expertise, customer ratings, and the lender's reputation.
[H3] Consider the length of your loan
Choosing a longer loan term, like a 30-year mortgage, lowers monthly payments but increases total interest paid. A shorter term, such as a 15-year mortgage, has higher monthly payments but can save you a lot on interest in the long run. Evaluate your financial situation and goals to determine the most suitable loan term for you.
[H3] Loan comparison calculator
Both points and credits may help you save money on your mortgage, but they do so in different ways. When you purchase mortgage points, you’ll pay more at the closing table in exchange for a lower interest rate. This can provide you with significant savings throughout your mortgage, as a lower rate means you’ll pay less in interest over time.On the other hand, when you accept lender credits, you can decrease or eliminate your upfront closing cost. The catch? You agree to a higher interest rate for the term of your loan.So, how do you decide if points or credits are right for you? Typically, if you plan to stay in your home for many years, buying points could save you significant money on interest overall.Conversely, if you plan to sell or refinance in the next few years, choosing lender credits and saving money upfront may make more sense. Our fixed-rate loan comparison calculator can show you how both would impact your mortgage over time.
[IMG: Mortgage rates | Loan comparison calculator]
[H2] What is the current mortgage rate?
Your actual rate may vary based on your financial profile. Get a personalized quote with no impact to your credit score in as little as 3 minutes with our online pre-approval. See my rates
[H2] How to compare mortgage rates and lenders
Compare APRs: When comparing mortgage rates and lenders, it's crucial to look at the annual percentage rate (APR) along with the interest rate. Lender A might offer you an interest rate of 5.250%, while lender B offers you an interest rate of 5.375%. At first glance, lender A might seem like the better deal. But to truly compare costs, you should also look at the APR.The APR takes into account not just the interest rate, but also the lender's fees and other loan-related costs, like points you can pay upfront to lower your rate, giving a fuller picture of the total cost to you. If lender A’s offer is 5.250% / 5.816% APR and lender B’s offer is 5.375% / 5.625% APR, then the lifetime cost of lender B’s loan is lower.Watch out for bait and switch tactics: Lenders may advertise low rates but later reveal higher rates and fees. In some cases, lenders will offer a “fee worksheet” or “initial loan worksheet” to borrowers. This worksheet is a document that outlines estimated rates, terms, and monthly costs based on the initial information you’ve provided.However, fee sheets are not standardized documents. And since they are not standardized, lenders can choose which fees to include. This means the fees included on a fee sheet can vary from lender to lender. So be sure to request a loan estimate in order to do a side-by-side comparison.Compare lender fees: Many costs on a loan estimate, like property taxes and homeowners insurance, are not costs that lenders control. Property taxes, for example, are set by your local government, and buyers find their own homeowner’s insurance. To make their offer look artificially attractive, lenders may provide artificially low cost estimates. To strictly compare lenders, check section A and B of your loan estimate. These are the sections that will vary by lender and will tell you which lender is charging less for their services. At Better Mortgage, we believe in letting you keep as much money in your pocket as possible, so we never charge unnecessary fees.A final important consideration is the option to lock in a mortgage rate. A rate lock allows you to secure a specific interest rate for a specified period, typically 30 to 60 days, protecting you from any rate increases during that time. This can be helpful when interest rates are expected to rise.
[H2] What will my monthly mortgage interest payments be?
Your monthly mortgage interest payment is calculated based on the annual interest rate divided by 12. For example, if your annual interest rate is 5%, your monthly rate would be approximately 0.417% (.05/12 = .00417). This percentage is then applied to the remaining loan balance each month, resulting in a varying interest amount as you pay off more of the loan.It's important to note the overall mortgage payment on a fixed-rate mortgage remains the same throughout the loan term. A mortgage payment has two elements, principal and interest. Principal is the amount you still owe on the loan.To get a better understanding of how interest payments are distributed over the life of a loan, you can use an amortization calculator. Here's an example of amortization during the first year of a 30-year fixed loan of $350k with a 5% interest rate.
[IMG: Mortgage rates | Amortization year examples]
Image and monthly payment amounts are for illustrative purposes only.You can use our free mortgage amortization calculator and table here.
[H2] Will I have the same mortgage interest rate forever?
No, you have the option to refinance your mortgage as often as makes financial sense.Refinancing can be a wise financial move if interest rates have dropped since you obtained your original mortgage. By refinancing to a lower rate, you can lower your monthly payment and potentially save thousands of dollars in interest over the life of the loan. However, it is important to carefully consider the costs associated with refinancing, such as closing costs, to ensure that the savings outweigh the expenses.
[H2] Next steps
[IMG: Get pre-approved to see how much you can borrow]
Get pre-approved to see how much you can borrowGet started →Won’t impact your credit
[IMG: Find out your max homebuying budget]
Find out your max homebuying budgetTry our mortgage calculator →
[IMG: See the cost of any home]
See the cost of any homeTry the mortgage calculator →Rates can change several times a day, so we make sure you have the latest. We updated them at
. Interest rates and APRs are for informational purposes
and do not include all applicable fees. Your actual rates, payments, and costs may differ.Rates and fees are as of time displayed above and are subject to change without notice.The one-time costs shown include points/credits and third-party fees. An escrow deposit, pre-paid interest, and other charges may be required depending on your situation.We don’t yet have your complete financial picture. Your actual rate, payment and costs could be higher. Get an official Loan Estimate before choosing a loan.Loan approval is subject to underwriter review: not everyone who applies will be approved.We also assume: closing costs are paid out of pocket; your debt-to-income ratio is below 35%; you are purchasing or refinancing a single-family home that is your primary residence; you are making a down payment of 20%; and your credit score is 760 or higher.

[H1] Refinance rates today
Here are today’s refinance rates in . Get a personalized quote for your area in as little as 3 minutes, with no impact to your credit score.See personalized ratesMortgagePurchaseRefinanceVA LoansHome equityHome Equity LoansHELOCCash-out RefinanceYou may be eligible to pay little to no upfront closing costsThis means you can include upfront closing costs in the total loan amount and pay them over the life of the loan. Continue to personalize rates to learn more.Have another rate? Let us match it →The above rates are estimated rates current as of: Rates and other loan terms are subject to lender approval and not guaranteed.
[IMG: The difference between “fixed rate” and “adjustable”]
1:37The difference between “fixed rate” and “adjustable”
[IMG: What are points and credits?]
1:16What are points and credits?Rates and fees are as of time displayed above and are subject to change without notice.The one-time costs shown include points/credits and third-party fees. An escrow deposit, pre-paid interest, and other charges may be required depending on your situation.We don’t yet have your complete financial picture. Your actual rate, payment and costs could be higher. Get an official Loan Estimate before choosing a loan.Loan approval is subject to underwriter review: not everyone who applies will be approved.We also assume: closing costs are paid out of pocket; your debt-to-income ratio is below 35%; you are purchasing or refinancing a single-family home that is your primary residence; you are making a down payment of 20%; and your credit score is 760 or higher.