Mortgage and refinance interest rates today, October 18, 2025: Rates hit their lowest point of 2025

Core Insights - Mortgage rates have fluctuated, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate currently at 6.18%, marking its lowest point of 2025 [1][19][21] - Economists do not expect significant drops in mortgage interest rates before the end of the year, although minor decreases may occur [20] Current Mortgage Rates - The current national average mortgage rates are as follows: - 30-year fixed: 6.18% - 20-year fixed: 5.62% - 15-year fixed: 5.51% - 5/1 ARM: 6.38% - 7/1 ARM: 6.35% - 30-year VA: 5.62% - 15-year VA: 5.09% - 5/1 VA: 5.31% [5] Market Conditions - The current housing market is relatively favorable for buyers compared to previous years, with home prices stabilizing after the COVID-19 pandemic [17] - The best time to buy a house is when it aligns with personal circumstances rather than attempting to time the market [18] Refinance Rates - Mortgage refinance rates are generally higher than purchase rates, but this is not always the case [3] - To secure a low refinance rate, improving credit scores and lowering debt-to-income ratios are recommended strategies [22]