The first factor in establishing the interest rate is the demand for the particular type of mortgage by investors.  This is determined by the competition from other investments products.  Simply put the more demand for mortgage securities the lower the interest rates.

The second part of the rate determination is the physical property securing the mortgage.  The type of property, (single family, duplex or multifamily) and its intended use, (primary, secondary or investment) are both considered in evaluating the risk of the mortgage loan.  Example, a multi-family investment property is considered a higher risk mortgage loan than a single family owner occupied primary residence.

The third factor is the loan to value of the subject property.  A smaller down payment means a higher loan to value translating into more risk and a higher probability of default.

The final determining factor is the borrower’s credit worthiness.  Borrowers with higher credit scores and lower debt to income ratios (debt to income refers to monthly payments verse gross monthly income) are consider lower risk than borrower’s with marginal credit scores and higher debt to income.

While each individual factor does not determine the mortgage interest rate, they do collectively provide adjustments in the risk assessment for the final interest rate offered to the consumer.

For more information on Todays Washington Mortgage Rates contact one of our licensed mortgage professionals for a personalized rate quote. National Rate Average per Freddie Mac.