3 factors keeping mortgage rates elevated in the near future

[UNITED STATES] The Federal Reserve has just announced a 25 basis point cut to the federal funds rate, following a 50-basis-point reduction in September. This move has left many homebuyers and homeowners wondering if they'll finally see some relief in mortgage rates. However, the relationship between the Fed's actions and mortgage rates is not as straightforward as many believe. In fact, there are several compelling reasons why mortgage rates are unlikely to drop significantly in the near future, despite the Fed's recent rate cut.

The Disconnect Between Fed Rates and Mortgage Rates

Contrary to popular belief, the Federal Reserve's decision to lower its benchmark rate doesn't automatically translate to lower mortgage rates. Emanuel Santa-Donato, senior vice president and chief market analyst at Tomo, explains, "The market is basically fully pricing in a 25-basis-point cut. Markets only react when they get things different than they expect."

This means that unless the Fed surprises the market with unexpected moves, mortgage rates are likely to remain relatively stable.

Mortgage rates are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including long-term bond yields, inflation expectations, and overall economic conditions. While the Fed's actions can indirectly affect these factors, they don't have a direct, immediate impact on mortgage rates. As a result, homebuyers and homeowners shouldn't expect an immediate drop in mortgage rates following a Fed rate cut.

Economic Resilience and Inflation Concerns

One of the primary reasons mortgage rates remain elevated is the surprising resilience of the U.S. economy. Despite earlier predictions of a slowdown, economic indicators have remained strong, shifting investor expectations about future Fed rate cuts. Selma Hepp, the chief economist at CoreLogic, notes, "We had that initial 50-basis-point and I think markets may have expected at that point that you'd have more. But then when the job report and the inflation report came in, there was sort of that step back realizing that things are still not falling off the cliff and we still have a really strong economy."

This economic strength has led to concerns about potential inflationary pressures. Inflation fears can push mortgage rates higher, as lenders seek to protect their returns in an environment of rising prices. The market's perception of future inflation risks plays a crucial role in determining mortgage rates, often outweighing the immediate impact of Fed rate cuts.

Political Landscape and Policy Expectations

The current political climate and expectations surrounding future policies are also contributing to the upward pressure on mortgage rates. Santa-Donato points out, "The market over the past month has increasingly been pricing in a Donald Trump victory and Republican sweep, and the market believes, based on the policies that party has outlined, that is going to be the most inflationary outcome."

These political expectations are influencing market perceptions of future inflation risks, which in turn affect mortgage rates. If investors believe that future policies will lead to higher inflation, they may demand higher yields on mortgage-backed securities, pushing up mortgage rates for borrowers.

The Outlook for Mortgage Rates in 2025

While the immediate future may not bring significant relief for mortgage rates, there is some hope on the horizon. The Federal Reserve is expected to continue its rate-cutting cycle into 2025, which could eventually lead to lower mortgage rates. However, the extent of this decline remains uncertain and depends on various economic factors.

Potential for Gradual Decline

Experts anticipate that mortgage rates may ease as the Fed continues to lower rates next year. Hepp suggests, "I do think mortgage rates will come down, maybe not as much as we were hoping. I think maybe 6% is the sort of benchmark around which mortgage rates will oscillate, whereas we were hoping to get maybe to 5.5% to 5.75% by the end of next year."

This gradual decline could provide some relief for homebuyers and homeowners looking to refinance. However, it's important to note that these projections are subject to change based on economic conditions and policy decisions.

Factors That Could Influence Future Rates

Several factors will play a crucial role in determining the trajectory of mortgage rates in 2025:

Inflation Trends: If inflation remains under control, it could pave the way for lower mortgage rates. However, if inflationary pressures resurface, it could keep rates elevated or even push them higher.

Labor Market Conditions: The strength of the job market will influence the Fed's decisions on future rate cuts. A cooling labor market could lead to more aggressive rate cuts, potentially bringing down mortgage rates.

Economic Growth: Overall economic performance will be a key factor. Strong growth might limit the Fed's ability to cut rates, while a slowdown could lead to more accommodative monetary policy.

Global Economic Factors: International economic conditions and geopolitical events can impact U.S. interest rates and, by extension, mortgage rates.

Strategies for Homebuyers and Homeowners

Despite the current high-rate environment, there are still opportunities for both homebuyers and homeowners to make strategic decisions regarding their mortgages.

For Homebuyers

Consider Seasonal Advantages: Hepp points out that winter can be an advantageous time for homebuyers. "Winter season does tend to be slower with less competition and maybe sellers are more willing to give discounts," she explains. "Because if they have not taken their home off the market, they're more likely to entertain a discount because at that point it means that they really need to sell."

Focus on Home Prices: While rates are high, buyers might find better deals on home prices, which could offset the impact of higher mortgage rates.

Stay Prepared: Keep your finances in order and be ready to act quickly if rates do start to decline or if you find a particularly good deal on a home.

For Homeowners

Monitor Refinancing Opportunities: As Santa-Donato suggests, "If rates do drop next year, more homeowners will have an opportunity to refinance and lower their mortgage payments."

Stay informed about rate trends and be prepared to refinance when rates become favorable.

Consider Home Equity Options: If you need to access home equity but don't want to refinance at a higher rate, explore options like home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) or home equity loans.

Improve Your Credit Score: Even in a high-rate environment, having a strong credit score can help you secure better terms on a mortgage or refinance.

While the Federal Reserve's recent rate cut may not lead to an immediate drop in mortgage rates, understanding the factors at play can help homebuyers and homeowners make informed decisions. The complex interplay of economic indicators, inflation expectations, and political factors continues to keep mortgage rates elevated despite the Fed's actions.

Looking ahead to 2025, there's potential for gradual relief in mortgage rates as the Fed is expected to continue its rate-cutting cycle. However, this will depend on various economic factors and policy decisions. In the meantime, both homebuyers and homeowners can employ strategies to navigate the current high-rate environment effectively.

By staying informed about market trends, considering seasonal advantages, and being prepared for potential opportunities, individuals can make the most of their housing decisions, even in a challenging interest rate landscape.