
The Valley Strong mortgage market has been experiencing a significant shift in recent years. Mortgage rates have been trending downward, with the average 30-year fixed rate dropping to 3.85% in 2022.
This decrease in rates has led to an increase in homebuyers, with many first-time buyers taking advantage of the lower rates to purchase their first home. The Valley Strong mortgage market has seen a 15% increase in mortgage applications from first-time buyers in the past year.
The lower mortgage rates have also made it easier for homeowners to refinance their existing mortgages, with a 20% increase in refinancing applications over the past year. This is likely due to the desire to take advantage of the lower rates and reduce monthly mortgage payments.
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Mortgage Rates
Mortgage rates have been on the rise, with 15-year mortgage rates increasing 8 basis points to 3.21 percent and 30-year mortgage rates going up 4 points to 4.02 percent.
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This means a decrease in mortgage applications, as people are being shy away from applying due to the higher rates.
Higher mortgage rates are a sign of a growing economy, but it's essential to take a closer look at the economy during these times.
According to columnist John Crudele, the market highs, unemployment rates, and job increases are only affecting a select few, the 1 percent.
The US economy is experiencing a moderate growth period, but it's not growing at the quickened rate that many seem to think.
Buying a home requires careful consideration of the market, and it's crucial to take all sides into view before making a decision.
Mortgage rates are also a sign of the supply and demand for mortgages as an economy strengthens, and the Fed inflates prices on things like mortgage rates to create a balance.
Additional reading: Mortgage Rates Housing Market
Understanding Rate Changes
Mortgage rates are constantly changing, and it's essential to understand what this means for you. Higher mortgage rates can be a sign of a growing economy.
A strong economy can lead to higher mortgage rates, which can be a deterrent for potential borrowers. According to Freddie Mac, interest rates for 15-year mortgages increased 8 basis points, up to 3.21 percent, while 30-year mortgage rates went up 4 points to 4.02 percent.
However, it's not all bad news. A growing economy is generally a good sign, and mortgage rates are a reflection of the supply and demand for mortgages.
Consider reading: What Is the Current Interest Rate for Commercial Mortgages
Applicant DTI Ratio
Applicant DTI Ratio plays a crucial role in determining loan eligibility. Valley Strong Credit Union lent most frequently to those with DTI ratios of 30-36%, with 92 originations.
The average loan amount for applicants with a DTI ratio of 30-36% was $160,652, while the average fees were $2,297. This is significantly higher than the average fees for other DTI ratios.
Applicants with a DTI ratio of 20-30% received the second most originations, with 78 loans. Their average loan amount was $189,487, and average fees were $2,232.
Here's a breakdown of the originations by DTI ratio:
A DTI ratio of 49% resulted in 73 originations, with an average loan amount of $173,219 and average fees of $2,082.
Related reading: What Is Average Mortgage Rates
Rate Hikes Ahead
Mortgage rates have been on the rise, with 15-year mortgages increasing 8 basis points to 3.21 percent and 30-year mortgage rates going up 4 points to 4.02 percent.
This means that potential borrowers will likely see a decrease in mortgage applications, as has already been reported by National Mortgage News.
Higher mortgage rates can be a sign of a growing economy, as they indicate a strong demand for mortgages.
However, it's essential to take a closer look at the economy, as some experts argue that the growth is only benefiting a select few, like the 1 percent.
The recent increase in mortgage rates may be an attempt by the Fed to slow down inflation and create a balance in the economy.
Buying a home requires careful consideration of the market, and it's crucial to research and understand the current rate changes before making a decision.
Is There an Explanation for Low Interest Rates?
Low interest rates can be attributed to the safety and security of Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS), which are backed by government-supported entities like Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae.
Investors feel comfortable investing in MBS because they are essentially lending their money to homebuyers or businesses, and the government's full faith and credit is behind these securities. This comfort level has led to increased investment in MBS, which in turn has kept mortgage rates low.
According to Jed Kolko, a Trulia Chief Economist, low mortgage rates are a result of investors perceiving MBS as relatively safe. This perception is likely influenced by the government support behind these securities.
Investors are taking advantage of this rare financial opportunity while mortgage rates are low.
A fresh viewpoint: Mortgage Rates 17 Month Low
Valley Strong Mortgage
Valley Strong Mortgage offers a range of mortgage options, including FHA loans, VA loans, and conventional loans.
Their mortgage rates are highly competitive, with options starting as low as 3.5% APR for a 30-year fixed-rate loan. This can save borrowers thousands of dollars over the life of the loan compared to higher interest rates.
By choosing Valley Strong Mortgage, borrowers can also benefit from low or no down payment requirements, making it easier to get into a home.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Quicken Loan Mortgage Rates
15 Year Fixed
At Valley Strong Mortgage, we understand that buying your first home or refinancing can be a complex process, but having a knowledgeable mortgage loan consultant makes all the difference.
Having a consultant who can guide you through each step is crucial for getting the best rates and terms available, tailored to your needs.
Our mortgage loan consultants can walk you through the process, making sure you get the best rates and terms available, tailored to your needs.
Discover more: Best Credit Union Mortgage Rates
Applicant Income
Valley Strong Credit Union's mortgage lending data reveals some interesting patterns when it comes to applicant income. The credit union lent most frequently to those with incomes in the $100k-150k range, with a whopping 183 originations.
The average loan amount for this income range was a substantial $144,617, with total value of $26,465,000. Fees averaged $1,620, while the average interest rate was a relatively high 7.65%.
Those with incomes between $50k-75k were the second most popular group, with 125 originations. The average loan amount for this range was $62,440, with total value of $7,805,000.
A unique perspective: What Is the Apr for Home Refinance

The credit union also lent to those with higher incomes, with 59 originations in the $250k+ range. This group had the lowest average interest rate, at 6.75%, and the highest average loan amount, at $579,915.
Here's a breakdown of the data by income range:
Valley Strong CU
Valley Strong CU is a significant player in the financial landscape of the Central Valley, with a presence in Kern, Kings, San Joaquin, Solano, and Tulare counties.
It operates 31 branches, which is a testament to its commitment to serving the community.
The credit union has a large membership base, with over 360,000 individuals relying on its services.
Valley Strong CU has approximately $4 billion in assets, a substantial amount that underscores its financial stability.
This financial strength is a key factor in its ability to offer competitive mortgage products and services.
For more insights, see: Safe Credit Union Mortgage Rates
Rate Impact and Trends
Mortgage rates have been on the rise, with 15-year mortgages increasing 8 basis points to 3.21 percent and 30-year mortgage rates going up 4 points to 4.02 percent.
Higher mortgage rates can lead to a decrease in mortgage applications, as seen in the recent report by National Mortgage News.
The increase in mortgage rates is a sign of a growing economy, but it's essential to take a closer look at the economy during these times.
Rates Rising: Impact on You
Mortgage rates are on the rise, with 15-year mortgage rates increasing 8 basis points to 3.21 percent and 30-year mortgage rates going up 4 points to 4.02 percent.
This means a decrease in mortgage applications, as already reported by National Mortgage News. Higher mortgage rates will likely shy many people away from applying for a mortgage.
A growing economy is generally a sign of higher mortgage rates, as the Fed tries to create a balance by inflating prices on things like mortgage rates to draw back on inflation of goods and services.
However, columnist John Crudele suggests that the economy is not growing as quickly as it seems, with market highs and job increases only benefiting the 1 percent.
Buying a home requires careful consideration of the market, and it's essential to take all sides into view before making a decision.
Intriguing read: Us Housing Market Mortgage Rates Surge
Rate Tips
Getting the best mortgage rate requires more than just common knowledge. You need to know exactly what lenders are looking for.
Knowing what lenders want can save you thousands of dollars in interest payments over the life of your loan. Any loan officer can make you think you're getting the best rate, but how do you really know?
You won't know you've got the best mortgage rate without doing your research and being informed. Luckily, there are resources available to help you make an informed decision.
The key to getting a decent mortgage rate is to be a savvy borrower. This means being aware of the factors that lenders consider when determining your rate.
Additional reading: Mortgage Rates without Personal Information
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get a 3% mortgage rate?
Consider exploring assumable mortgages, which allow you to take over an existing mortgage at its current rate, potentially securing a rate as low as 3%
Sources
- https://www.valleystrong.com/fixed-rate-mortgages
- https://originationdata.com/institution/5493006MA7WP1WL8U431
- https://valleywestmortgage.com/category/mortgage-rates/page/2/
- https://www.totalmortgage.com/locations/state/ND/mortgage-rates/valley-city
- https://www.cuinsight.com/press-release/valley-strong-credit-union-offers-zero-down-for-first-time-homebuyers-through-new-home-start-mortgage-program/
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