On September 17, 2025, the Federal Reserve is widely expected to cut its short-term rate. Many homeowners are holding off on refinancing, hoping that means lower mortgage rates.
But here’s the truth: Mortgage rates don’t move in lockstep with the Fed’s rate.
It’s tempting to sit on the sidelines and wait for mortgage rates to drop—but doing so could cost you more than you think.
In today’s market, sellers are feeling the pressure to make their homes stand out. According to recent data, about 20% of listings saw price reductions this spring—the highest rate in eight years. And while analysts project a modest home price decline of 1% to 1.4% nationally by the end of 2025, that doesn’t mean a price cut is your only option—or your best one.
There’s been a quiet-but-huge shift in how mortgage lenders determine if you're “creditworthy.” Very soon, lenders may use VantageScore 4.0 for loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac—the two giants behind most conventional home loans in the U.S.
So what? Here's the so-what:
This Fourth of July, as we honor the birth of our nation, let’s remember that the American Dream—rooted in liberty and opportunity—has long been intertwined with homeownership. Owning a home isn’t just a financial milestone; it’s a symbol of stability, freedom, and pride in building a life in this great nation.
For many first-time homebuyers, the biggest hurdle to homeownership is the down payment. Fortunately, there are programs designed to help—commonly known as Down Payment Assistance (DPA).
At Williams Mortgage, we believe homeownership isn’t just about having a place to call your own—it’s a powerful tool for building long-term wealth, security, and generational opportunity. As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, let’s take a look at the numbers behind why owning a home can change lives, families, and communities.
The VA home loan program is a powerful benefit offered to eligible U.S. military service members, veterans, and some surviving spouses. Backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans make it easier to buy, build, or refinance a home with favorable terms.
In the current climate of economic fluctuation—spurred by trade tensions, shifting inflation, and Federal Reserve policy—mortgage rates have settled in the mid‑to‑high 6% range. As of late May 2025, the average 30‑year fixed rate hovers around 6.89%, after dipping briefly to 6.76% in early May . Weekly volatility remains high: investors react quickly to bond‑market swings and tariff updates, causing lenders to adjust pricing rapidly.
