This morning the benchmark 30-year mortgage jumped eleven basis points and came in at 4.15%. Likewise, mortgage applications also increased almost five percent from week over week reporting. As the economy continues to pick up steam consumers can expect to see rates increase accordingly as they are cyclical in nature and move based on a variety of economic factors.
Also, it is noted consumer confidence has improved. Combined with the heralded tax cut and the recent announcement of companies providing bonuses to employees, the result is more household cash to work with. Some analyst caution the giddiness being reported about the bonuses and cuts. Just this morning Home Depot joined the list of companies who will provide bonuses to eligible staff to the tune of up to $1,000. For most, the additional cash might seem like a great windfall but in the larger picture higher interest rates or higher cost of goods will reduce perceived savings.
Short term gain, long-term loss
Let, take a look. As an example, assuming a mortgage of $200,000, prior to the tax cuts rates where around 3.90%. Compared with today’s mortgage survey release of 4.15%, the difference is 25 basis points here is the bottom-line.
3.90% principal and interest = $943
4.15% principal and interest = $972
The difference is a motley $29 per month which seems nominal. However annually it is $348 and factoring seven years (which is the average time consumers keep their mortgage) the result is $2,436. So, while the bonuses are great in today’s dollars, it is more than wiped out based on higher cost.
Short term gain, long-term loss
There is a long-standing political debate on what effect the tax cut has for the “average” family that typically lives paycheck? No doubt in the capital society which we live in it is great to receive extra money such as bonuses or tax cuts, however the issue for many is sustainability or how long it will last?
The jump is interest rates is one sign attributed to the increase in mortgage applications. On one hand consumers may have extra money but on the other hand those who are in the market for a refinance or new mortgage realize any delay in making an application or locking in a rate may subject themselves to higher movement or additional cost to their budget.
The mortgage rates which are reflected are from the Freddie Mac weekly rate survey. The mortgage application data is from the Mortgage Bankers Association from the “Mortgage Application Weekly Survey.”
Rate recap
January 25, 2018
| 30-Yr FRM | 15-Yr FRM | 5/1-Yr ARM | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Rates | 4.15% | 3.62% | 3.52% |
| Fees & Points | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.4 |
| Margin | N/A | N/A | 2.75 |
Thomas Reports 