How Do I -- Mortgages

Keep it simple! Bankrate’s How Do I series offers simple, step-by-step guidance for life’s money moves. Here’s what you need to know about mortgages.

Mortgages archive

How do I: Decide if a lower rate is worth more points?

Article: Follow these tips to determine if it's worth paying points to get a lower rate.

How do I: Decide if I should rent or buy a home?

Article: Owning a home is not the right choice for every person.

How do I: Understand my mortgage?

Article: Here's a guide to finding out what type of mortgage you have, and its terms and conditions.

How do I: Find the best mortgage rate?

Article: Follow these tips to get the best mortgage rate, whether you're buying your first home or refinancing.

Chapter 5: Underwriting

Article: A lot of steps have to be taken between the application and the closing. Here's how you can help the process.

List of all archives

About this index

Overnight Averages

Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
30 yr fixed mtg	3.89%		3.85%
15 yr fixed mtg	3.21%		3.18%
5/1 ARM	2.88%		2.85%

View rates in your area:

Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
$30K HELOC	4.66%		4.71%
$30K home equity loan	5.97%		5.99%
$50K HELOC	4.28%		4.32%

View rates in your area:

Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
48 month used car loan	4.80%		4.24%
48 month new car loan	3.62%		3.63%
36 month used car loan	4.88%		4.87%

View rates in your area:

Product	Yield	+/-	Last week
6 month CD	0.47%		0.47%
1 yr CD	0.75%		0.75%
5 yr CD	1.54%		1.56%

Compare rates:

Product	Rate
Balance Transfer Cards	16.14%
Cash Back Cards	16.40%
Low Interest Cards	10.78%

Compare rates:

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