Today's mortgage and refinance rates: September 14, 2022 | Rates inch down

Mortgage rates dipped slightly following yesterday's news that inflation is still running hot. But rates remain elevated, and are likely to stay that way for the foreseeable future.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released August's Consumer Price Index report on Tuesday. The report showed inflation cooling, but not quite as much as many had expected. Over the last 12 months, prices rose 8.3%, which is down from July's reading of 8.5%. 

The Federal Reserve has been aggressively raising the federal funds rate to try to bring inflation down to its target annual rate of 2%. With this latest CPI data, the Fed likely has the evidence it needs to support another 75-basis-point hike at its meeting next week.

Pressure caused by Fed rate hikes will likely keep mortgage rates elevated until inflation starts to come down to a more acceptable level.

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Use our free mortgage calculator to see how today's interest rates will affect your monthly payments:

By clicking on "More details," you'll also see how much you'll pay over the entire length of your mortgage, including how much goes toward the principal vs. interest.

Are mortgage rates going up?

Mortgage rates started ticking up from historic lows in the second half of 2021 and have increased significantly so far in 2022. More recently, rates have been relatively volatile.

In the last 12 months, the Consumer Price Index rose by 8.3%. The Federal Reserve has been working to get inflation under control, and plans to increase the federal funds target rate three more times this year, following increases in March, May, June, and July.

Though not directly tied to the federal funds rate, mortgage rates are sometimes pushed up as a result of Fed rate hikes and investor expectations of how those hikes will impact the economy.

Inflation remains elevated, but has started to slow, which is a good sign for mortgage rates and the broader economy. 

What do high rates mean for the housing market?

When mortgage rates go up, home shoppers' buying power decreases, as more of their anticipated housing budget has to go toward paying interest. If rates get high enough, buyers can get priced out of the market completely, which cools demand and puts downward pressure on home price growth.

However, that doesn't mean home prices will fall — in fact, they're expected to rise even more this year, just at a slower pace than what we've seen in the past couple of years.

What is a good mortgage rate?

It can be hard to know if a lender is offering you a good rate, which is why it's so important to get preapproved with multiple mortgage lenders and compare each offer. Apply for preapproval with at least two or three lenders.

Your rate isn't the only thing that matters. Be sure to compare both what your monthly costs would be as well as your upfront costs, including any lender fees.

Even though mortgage rates are heavily influenced by economic factors that are out of your control, there are some things you can do to help ensure you get a good rate:

• Consider fixed vs. adjustable rates. You may be able to get a lower introductory rate with an adjustable-rate mortgage, which can be good if you plan to move before the intro period ends. But a fixed rate could be better if you're buying a forever home because you won't risk your rate going up later. Look at the rates your lender offers and weigh your options.
• Look at your finances. The stronger your financial situation, the lower your mortgage rate should be. Look for ways to boost your credit score or lower your debt-to-income ratio, if necessary. Saving for a higher down payment also helps.
• Choose the right lender. Each lender charges different mortgage rates. Picking the right one for your financial situation will help you land a good rate.