Compare current rates for every loan type — conventional, FHA, VA, bank statement, DSCR, and refinance. No hidden fees. Real rates from a real lender.
Take The Rate consistently offers some of the most competitive mortgage rates in California, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee. Here's what well-qualified borrowers are seeing today.
*Rates shown are sample rates for well-qualified borrowers and are subject to change without notice. Rates are not available to all applicants. Actual rate depends on credit score (FICO), loan-to-value ratio (LTV), property type, loan amount, occupancy, and other factors. APR includes estimated fees. Contact Take The Rate for your personalized mortgage rate quote. Not a commitment to lend. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #299683.
Many borrowers ask: "Why is my rate different from what I saw online?" These are the six factors that influence your personal mortgage rate.
Your credit score is the single biggest factor in your rate. A 760+ score typically gets you the lowest available rate. A 620 score may be 0.5–1% higher. Improving your score before applying can save tens of thousands over the life of the loan.
Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio is your loan amount divided by the home's value. Lower LTV (larger down payment) = lower risk = lower rate. A 20% down payment eliminates PMI and secures the best conventional rates. Even 25% vs 20% can improve your rate slightly.
Shorter loan terms carry lower interest rates. A 15-year fixed rate is typically 0.5–0.75% lower than a 30-year fixed rate. However, the monthly payment on a 15-year is significantly higher. We'll help you find the right balance.
Primary residences get the lowest rates. Investment properties and second homes carry higher rates. Condominiums and multi-unit properties may also be priced slightly higher than single-family homes. State can also affect rates slightly.
Different loan programs carry different base rates. VA loans often have the lowest rates for eligible veterans. Conventional loans with strong credit are very competitive. FHA loans may have slightly higher rates but are offset by lower credit requirements. Non-QM loans for self-employed borrowers typically carry higher rates.
Mortgage rates are largely driven by the 10-year Treasury yield and Federal Reserve monetary policy. When inflation is high or the economy is strong, rates tend to rise. When the Fed cuts rates, mortgage rates often (but not always) follow. Our team monitors daily rate movements to help you lock at the right time.
Credit score has the most direct impact on your mortgage rate. Here's a general guide to what borrowers typically see at different score ranges.
| Credit Score Range | Rating | 30-Yr Fixed (Est.) | FHA Eligible | VA Eligible | Best Loan Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 760 – 850 | Excellent | Best rates available | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | All loan types — best terms |
| 740 – 759 | Very Good | ~+0.125% above best | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Conventional, VA, FHA |
| 720 – 739 | Good | ~+0.25% above best | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Conventional, VA, FHA |
| 680 – 719 | Good | ~+0.5% above best | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Conventional, FHA, VA |
| 640 – 679 | Fair | ~+0.75–1% above best | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | FHA, VA, some conventional |
| 580 – 639 | Below Average | Higher rate / limited programs | ✓ 3.5% down | ✓ Yes | FHA (3.5% down), VA |
| 500 – 579 | Poor | Limited options | ⚠️ 10% down | ✓ Case by case | FHA (10% down), VA |
| Below 500 | Very Poor | — | ✗ No | ⚠️ Case by case | Credit repair recommended first |
*This table is for general guidance only. Actual loan approvals and rates depend on many factors. Contact Take The Rate to discuss your specific situation — we may have options that work for you regardless of credit score.
Smart borrowers know these strategies. We help every client optimize before they apply.
Take The Rate offers low mortgage rates for home purchases and refinancing in every state we serve. Whether you're buying in California, refinancing in Texas, or investing in Florida — we have your rate.
The questions we hear most often from borrowers shopping for the best mortgage rate.
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