These are today's mortgage and refinance rates. Mortgage rates are down slightly today, but they're still higher than they've been in recent months.

Mortgage experts agree that the right time to lock in a rate depends on your situation. Making your move later this month could offer some advantages. But your timeline, financial readiness and local housing market should guide your decision. The choice isn't just about getting the lowest rate — you must find the right balance for your needs.

The current median interest rate is 6.99% for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage and 6.13% for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage

These are today's mortgage and refinance rates. Mortgage rates have remained elevated in spite of recent Fed cuts. But they may drop next year.

Following the Fed's 0.5% rate cut in September, mortgage rates went up, not down. Even though the central bank's policy decisions and economic outlook affect credit markets, the F

Mortgage refi rates have fallen for a second day, lowering the 30-year average to its cheapest level since mid-October. Most other loan types saw rates hold steady or drop.

The average 30-year mortgage rate remains high despite the Federal Reserve again dropping its key interest rate.