Mortgage rates seem to have a mind of their own — sometimes rising when you'd expect them to fall. Learn how the Fed rate affects home borrowing costs for smarter financial decisions, plus actionable tips.

Mortgage rates are still fluctuating in 2025 as the Fed holds steady — for now. Learn how interest rate changes affect your monthly payments and what buyers should watch for this year.

Average rates are likely to stay in the 6.75% to 7.25% range unless the Fed signals multiple cuts and backs up their policy with data, said Nicole Rueth, of the Rueth Team with Movement Mortgage. "Homebuyers waiting on rates to drop drastically might be disappointed," Rueth said.