Are you looking to buy a home? You are actually at a great advantage now, despite all the horror stories on the news every night. The astounding number of foreclosures across the country has forced the government to find ways to stimulate the economy. One of the major benefits for buyers in the market today is the low 30-year fixed rate.

Recently, 30-year fixed rates dropped to the lowest level in the last four years. The average fixed mortgage loan rate in the final weeks of January 2008 was 5.48%, marginally above 2004′s low of 5.40%. This marks the third consecutive week that 30-year fixed rates were below six percent.

In a battle to combat a recession, the Federal Reserve implemented key interest rate cuts. This has been one of the main factors in the drop, along with a further weakening of the economy. It is hoped such a large drop in rates will spur more people to buy homes, whether new or existing.

For current homeowners looking to refinance, the current low 30-year fixed rate is the perfect opportunity. With so many in foreclosure peril from adjustable rate mortgage loans, homeowners are looking to save money and lower payments.

The advantages of a 30-year fixed rate are obvious. While the payments initially may be more than an adjustable rate mortgage, the fixed nature of the mortgage will keep payments steady. When adjustable rates balloon, as they have recently, the fixed rate will remain the same. Also, the early payments of a 30-year fixed rate loan are primarily interest, which is tax deductible. Monthly financial planning is easier when you know what each payment will be.

One of the cons of a 30-year fixed rate is higher interest. With a 15-year mortgage, payments are much higher but interest is significantly lower. Also, without a down payment, mortgage insurance is usually required. This adds a small amount onto each payment until a percentage of the principle has been paid, usually twenty percent. After this the private mortgage insurance (PMI) is no longer required. If you have PMI in your mortgage payments, be sure to notify the lending institution when you have paid off that percentage of your property. Otherwise they may continue to charge you for it.

Though there are some slight drawbacks associated with a 30-year fixed rate mortgage, they are generally a homeowner’s best bet. Some studies have shown homeowners saving money on adjustable rate mortgages, but these are rare cases. Especially with the current economic uncertainty, a 30-year fixed rate is a reliable constant.

Lending institutions have varying interest offers. Many Websites report on the current rates offered by large lenders. A good site has no direct connection or interests attached to any of these companies. Be mindful of any sites that offer advertising for any financial institutions.

Want to make this loan slightly more advantageous? Consider the interest only 30 year fixed rate loan. With this product, you can make interest only payments for the first ten years. After the first ten years, the loan amortizes out over the remaining 20 years. Financing a home in this manner will expand your purchasing power by an extra 20% with the same mortgage payment as a straight 30 year amortizing loan.

With smart shopping, it’s a great time to find a home with the current 30-year fixed mortgage rates. The housing situation will recover, and the rates will go up. So take advantage of this time to buy your dream home or refinance your existing property.

Mortgage rates for 30-year fixed rates continued a downward trend , with the weekly average rate borrowers were quoted on Zillow Mortgage Marketplace at 5.04%,

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