Today's average mortgage interest rates are significantly lower than they were earlier in 2025. Carlo Franco/carlofranco/Getty Images

Homebuyers and owners looking to refinance may have more than just the holidays to focus on this month. With mortgage rates steadily declining this year and optimism that they may drop again this December if the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates next week, now may be a smart time to reconsider your options. And with many lenders pricing in next week's Fed rate cut now, before it's formally announced, you may already have viable, affordable rates to consider.

With mortgage rates and terms varying from lender to lender, however, it pays to start shopping around now to establish a baseline for comparison. Even a slight difference in rates can easily

See Full Page