💡 The Secret to Getting the Best Mortgage Rate (It’s Not What You Think)

Everyone Wants the Lowest Rate — But Is That the Smartest Move?

When homebuyers call, the first question is usually:

“What’s your rate today?”

Here’s the truth — the best rate isn’t always the lowest number you see online.
The right mortgage rate is the one that fits your strategy, your timeline, and your long-term goals.

Because what good is a 6-month “cheap” rate if it doesn’t align with your budget, costs, or equity-building strategy?

What Really Influences Your Mortgage Rate

Your lender doesn’t just pick a number out of thin air. Your rate is based on multiple factors — none of which have to do with how much the lender makes.

Here’s what actually matters:

1️⃣ Credit Score – Higher scores mean less risk for lenders → lower pricing. Think of it like insurance: a clean record gets better rates.

2️⃣ Loan Type – Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA — each has unique pricing based on who’s backing it. The same credit score can result in slightly different rates depending on the program.

3️⃣ Down Payment & Loan Amount – More “skin in the game” usually improves your pricing. But sometimes keeping cash for renovations or a rate buydown makes more sense strategically.

4️⃣ The Market – Mortgage rates are based on mortgage-backed securities. Headlines about “the Fed raising rates” don’t directly change your mortgage overnight — the bond market reacts, and rates follow.

5️⃣ Loan Structure – This is where the magic happens. Using seller concessions, points, or lender credits, we can buy down your rate strategically to save money month over month.

💡 Example:
On a $300,000 loan, lowering your rate by just 1% can cut your payment by roughly $180 per month — over $2,000 a year in savings. That’s more impactful than negotiating $5,000 off the home price.

The Best Rate Isn’t Found — It’s Built

A smart mortgage rate comes from:
✅ Planning
✅ Clear communication between lender, buyer, and Realtor
✅ Strategic use of credits, concessions, and points

It’s not about chasing the lowest number online — it’s about building the right number for your life and goals.

When you have a team that understands your long-term plan, you stop stressing over the rate and start focusing on what really matters: owning a home that fits your life and builds your financial future.

Take Your Rate to the Next Level

If you’ve been shopping for the lowest number, it’s time to take a step back and focus on strategy.

Download my FREE Complete Home Buyer Roadmap to learn exactly how to:
✅ Use seller concessions and lender credits
✅ Structure your loan for smart, sustainable rates
✅ Build a mortgage plan that fits your goals

I’m Ashley Courville with The Complete Home Experience, helping you buy smart, not cheap.

Book a call with me today and watch our Youtube video!