Mortgage and refinance interest rates today for December 15, 2025: Little movement since the end of October

Core Viewpoint - Mortgage rates are stable, with the 30-year fixed rate at 6.13% and the 15-year fixed rate at 5.53%, despite a recent interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve [1][17]. Current Mortgage Rates - The national average for the 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.13% [1][17]. - The 15-year fixed mortgage rate stands at 5.53% [1][17]. - Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) such as the 5/1 ARM are currently at 6.24% [1][17]. Refinance Rates - Refinance rates are generally higher than purchase rates, but specific current refinance rates were not detailed in the provided content [3]. Monthly Payment Implications - For a $300,000 mortgage at a 30-year term with a 6.13% rate, the monthly payment would be approximately $1,824, resulting in $356,569 in interest over the loan's life [7]. - A $300,000 mortgage at a 15-year term with a 5.53% rate would lead to a monthly payment of $2,456, with total interest paid being $142,085 [9]. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages - ARMs typically start with lower rates than fixed-rate mortgages but can increase after the initial fixed period [10][11]. - The 5/1 ARM locks in the rate for the first five years before adjusting annually [10]. Factors Influencing Mortgage Rates - Lenders offer lower rates to borrowers with higher down payments, excellent credit scores, and low debt-to-income ratios [13]. - Options for reducing interest rates include paying for discount points at closing or temporary buydowns [14][15]. Future Rate Predictions - The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) forecasts the 30-year mortgage rate to remain around 6.4% through 2026, while Fannie Mae predicts rates above 6% next year, potentially dropping to 5.9% in Q4 2026 [19].