In South Carolina, VA mortgage rates are competitive, with current rates starting from around 3.75% for a 30-year fixed loan.
For eligible veterans, the VA loan program offers a range of benefits, including no down payment requirements and lower interest rates.
The VA loan program has helped countless veterans achieve homeownership, with over 50% of all VA loans being used to purchase a primary residence.
To qualify for a VA loan in South Carolina, you'll need to meet the VA's service requirements, which include having at least 90 days of active duty service during wartime or 181 days during peacetime.
Current Mortgage Rates
Current mortgage rates in South Carolina are influenced by the same factors that affect VA loan rates nationwide. The Federal Reserve's pivot to a cutting cycle has led to a decrease in interest rates, including VA loan rates, which are expected to continue to drop in 2025.
VA loan rates change daily based on market conditions, so it's essential to check current rates regularly. You can find current VA loan rates for each VA loan type on various websites.
The interest rate on a VA mortgage depends on many variables, including credit score, financial profile, and current economic conditions. Even though you can check current VA loan rates, this will only give you a general insight into the market, not necessarily the loan rate you'll qualify for.
Here's a snapshot of current VA loan rates in South Carolina:
VA loan rates have been trending upward over the past few years, largely due to economic conditions and the Federal Reserve's rate hikes. However, it's essential to focus on long-term trends rather than comparing current rates to rates from two or three years ago.
Understanding Mortgage Options
If you're considering a mortgage in South Carolina, you have several options to choose from. To qualify for a conventional mortgage, you'll typically need a minimum credit score of 620 and a debt-to-income ratio of no more than 45 percent.
If your credit history doesn't meet conventional mortgage requirements, you might be able to obtain a loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). For an FHA loan, you'll need a down payment of at least 3.5 percent and a credit score as low as 580.
You can also explore South Carolina VA loans if you're a veteran or active-duty military member. These loans don't require a down payment or mortgage insurance, but you'll need to pay a funding fee ranging from 1.25 percent to 3.3 percent.
Conventional
Conventional loans are a popular choice for homebuyers in South Carolina, but they come with some requirements. You'll typically need a minimum credit score of 620 and a debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of no more than 45 percent to qualify.
To avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI) premiums, you'll need to make a down payment of at least 20 percent. However, if you put down less than 20 percent, you'll need to pay PMI premiums.
Conventional loans can be used to finance primary residences, investment properties, or vacation homes. The interest rates for conventional loans vary depending on the market and your creditworthiness.
Here's a comparison of the costs associated with a conventional loan versus a VA loan:
Refinance vs Purchase
VA refinance rates are often different than rates on VA purchase loans, depending on factors like the type of loan, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio.
The goal of refinancing is key - if you're looking to lower your interest rate, a VA streamline refinance loan, also known as an IRRRL, is a good option.
VA cash-out refinance loans are designed to free up equity in your home, and in some cases, you may be able to get a lower interest rate.
However, VA refinance rates may seem higher than purchase loan interest rates at first glance, but it's essential to compare them based on your current interest rate.
A lower interest rate on a refinance loan can save you money in the long run, so it's worth exploring your options.
What Is Apr?
APR is a broader reflection of borrowing costs, including the interest rate and fees associated with getting the mortgage. APR can take into consideration the following items:
- Interest rate
- Origination fees and costs
- Closing agent fees
- Discount points
- Other fees dependent on the specific transaction
APR is typically higher than your base interest rate, and lenders may calculate it differently. This is because APR includes the total cost of the loan, not just the interest rate.
Factors Affecting Mortgage Rates
Market forces beyond the lender's control, such as inflation, job growth, and the secondary mortgage market, significantly impact VA loan interest rates.
Credit score plays a crucial role in determining your VA loan rate, with a good credit score almost always resulting in a lower rate. Your credit report can be a concern, but the VA Guaranty can help you qualify for a low rate.
Your financial health, including your credit score, income, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment amount, determines your individual VA loan rate. A good credit score can help you qualify for a better rate, but it may take months or longer to make a significant improvement.
Individual lenders determine VA home loan rates, which means your rate will vary depending on which lender you work with. Market factors, such as job growth, national debt, and inflation, have a significant impact on VA loan interest rates.
The loan term also plays a role in VA home loan interest rates, with shorter-term loans typically having lower interest rates. However, this isn't always the case, as many factors impact your VA home loan rate.
Here are the main variables that determine VA mortgage rates:
- Market Factors: inflation, job growth, national debt, and inflation
- Loan Term: 30-year vs 15-year loan
- Fixed vs Variable Rate: fixed-rate vs adjustable-rate mortgage
- Loan Type: purchase loan, refinance loan, and subtypes
Your credit score, income, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment amount all factor into your individual VA loan rate. Improving your credit score can help you qualify for a better rate, but it may take time.
Mortgage Lock and APR
To get a VA loan, you need to be under contract to lock in your interest rate. This can take some time, and the timeline varies depending on the loan type and economic environment.
A rate lock guarantees a set interest rate for a specific amount of time, typically 30 to 60 days. This is an essential part of the mortgage process, as mortgage rates often fluctuate daily.
VA loan interest rates are solely the expression of how much interest you'll have to pay on your loan. APR, on the other hand, includes more than just the interest rate - it comprises the annual cost of the loan, including closing costs, loan origination fees, broker fees, and discount points.
Here's a rough breakdown of what's included in APR:
- Closing costs
- Loan origination fees
- Broker fees
- Discount points
Interest vs APR
Interest vs APR is a crucial distinction to understand when shopping for a mortgage. APR, or annual percentage rate, is a more comprehensive measure of the cost of a loan.
APR includes the interest rate, as well as other fees such as closing costs, loan origination fees, broker fees, and discount points. This means APR is typically higher than the interest rate.
The difference between interest rate and APR can be significant. For example, APR may be a better way to compare the actual costs of different home loans because it gives you a comprehensive view of how much you'll be paying on a yearly basis.
Here's a breakdown of the fees included in APR:
- Closing costs
- Loan origination fees
- Broker fees
- Discount points
What Is a Lock?
A rate lock is a guarantee of a set interest rate for a specific amount of time, typically ranging from 30 to 60 days.
This guarantee is essential in the mortgage process, as mortgage rates often fluctuate daily, which means your rate could change if your loan isn't locked in.
A rate lock is a protection for you, the borrower, as it ensures you'll get a fixed interest rate for a set period, even if market rates change.
Locking in Interest
To lock in your interest rate, you need to be under contract, which can vary depending on factors like the loan type and economic environment.
If you're ready to proceed, you can contact a home loan specialist at 1-800-884-5560 or start your VA Home Loan quote online, with no obligation.
A rate lock guarantees a set interest rate for a specific amount of time, typically ranging from 30 to 60 days, which is an essential part of the mortgage process.
Current advertised rates for Interest Rate Reduction Refinancing Loans (IRRRLs) assume a 60-day lock period, and VA loan rates tend to be slightly lower than rates for other mortgage types.
The interest rate on a VA mortgage depends on many variables, including the loan type, the borrower's creditworthiness, and the overall economic environment.
You can expect the timeline for locking in your interest rate to vary, but being under contract is a necessary step to secure a rate lock.
A rate lock guarantees a set interest rate for a specific amount of time, and it's essential to understand that rates often fluctuate daily.
Here's a breakdown of the typical lock periods:
- 30-day lock period
- 60-day lock period
Keep in mind that these lock periods can vary depending on the lender and the specific loan product.
Veterans and Mortgage Rates
VA loans offer mortgage rates that are lower than other loan types, making it a more affordable option for service members.
No down payment is required for VA loans, which can be a huge relief for those who may not have a lot of savings.
VA loans also eliminate the need for mortgage insurance, which can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year.
Here are some key benefits of VA loans:
- No down payment
- No mortgage insurance
- Low credit score requirements
- Mortgage rates that are lower than other loan types
Benefits for Service Members
As a service member, you're likely aware of the benefits that come with VA loans. One of the biggest advantages is that you don't need to make a down payment to purchase a home.
This can be a huge relief, especially for those who are just starting out or have limited savings. No down payment means you can put that money towards other important things, like moving expenses or home repairs.
VA loans also eliminate the need for mortgage insurance, which can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
And, with lower mortgage rates than other loan types, you'll be paying less interest and saving money in the long run.
Why Veterans United?
At Veterans United, they understand that locking in the right interest rate is key to a successful VA loan. They work within your financial means to give you an accurate and realistic quote.
They don't try to entice borrowers with low rates that are impossible to qualify for, unlike some other lenders.
With Veterans United, there are no hidden costs or locking fees, giving you total transparency when it comes to your interest rate.
They assume a default credit score of 720 when estimating interest rates, which may change through their interactive drop-down menu. This default credit score can affect the displayed rate.
They also assume 181 days of eligible active regular military service with no service-related disabilities or previous use of a VA Loan. This is important to note, as it impacts the loan rates and APR calculations.
Current advertised rates for fixed rate purchase loans assume a 30-day lock period, no down payment, and a $295,000 loan amount.
National
As a veteran, you're likely aware that mortgage rates can vary depending on the loan type. The current national mortgage rates for veterans are quite competitive.
For a 30-Year Fixed Rate VA loan, the interest rate is 6.50% and the APR is 6.55%. This is a relatively low rate, especially considering the loan term is 30 years.
If you're looking for a shorter loan term, a 15-Year Fixed Rate loan might be a good option. The interest rate for this type of loan is 6.34% and the APR is 6.41%.
Here's a summary of the current national mortgage rates for veterans:
These rates are based on the Bankrate Monitor averages, which are produced weekly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current VA mortgage rates right now?
As of December 30th, 2024, the current VA mortgage rates are 6.125% for purchases and 6.250% for refinances. Check the table below for more rates and details.
How to get the lowest rate on VA loan?
To get the lowest rate on a VA loan, focus on improving your credit score and making a significant down payment. Get personalized rate quotes from different lenders to find the best option for you.
Sources
- https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/va-loan-rates/
- https://www.veteransunited.com/va-loans/va-mortgage-rates/
- https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/mortgage-rates/south-carolina/
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/mortgage-rates/south-carolina
- https://griffinfunding.com/traditional-mortgages/va-loans/va-rates/
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