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Mortgage Rates Fall After SVB Failure, But Is It Safe To Buy A House Now?

Laura Gariepy

By Laura Gariepy

Beautiful young couple hugging in front of their new house, outdoors stock photo
Prostock-Studio / iStock.com

The average 30-year mortgage interest rate fell from 6.73% to 6.6% this week, according to the latest data from Freddie Mac. That’s because mortgage rates partially align with the 10-year Treasury rate, which dipped in response to the Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank failures.

See: The 15 Biggest Bank Failures in US History
Find: Odds of Recession Increase 10% After Bank Failures

The rate decrease leaves many homebuyers wondering if they should try to time the market and purchase property before the next uptick. If you fall into that group, you’re not alone. Mortgage applications are up 7% this week (but home loan demand isn’t even close to last year’s level).

So, should you buy a house now or continue to wait? The truth is, your answer should depend more on your financial situation than on external economic conditions. For instance, if you have inconsistent income, a poor credit score, or insufficient cash on hand to cover closing and incidental costs, you likely can’t afford to buy a house.

However, if your finances are in order, delaying homeownership may not make sense. High interest rates (and interest rate volatility) may be the new normal we all have to live with for the foreseeable future. Plus, there might be a benefit to buying a house when interest rates are high.

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When it costs more to borrow, you’ll have less competition, potentially making it easier to win the bid for your dream property. Sellers may also be more willing to negotiate on price to close the deal.

Learn: Can I Reduce My Mortgage Rate Without Refinancing?
Explore: Top 10 Cities Americans Would Move To If ‘Money Was No Object’

In addition, you can buy points to reduce your interest rate. And, if rates do drop in the future, you can refinance your home loan.

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About the Author

Laura Gariepy

Laura Gariepy

Laura has been a freelance writer since 2018. Her work primarily focuses on managing your money, navigating your career, and running a successful business. She earned her MBA and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology during her previous career in human resources. She is also a business coach to new and aspiring freelancers and runs an online resource hub for them called Before You Go Freelance. In addition, she helps other writers get clear on their message, plan their content, and produce compelling written works.
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