Article Submitted by Kristi Hunt, a recommended Larson Realty Service Loan Officer.
The Federal Reserve constantly evaluates the US economy and, when necessary,
takes steps to address inflationary concerns and avoid economic
recession or depression. The mass media, in turn, reacts by providing a
wide range of opinions and interpretations of the Fed’s monetary policy.
This can make it very difficult for consumers to decipher how such
actions will influence interest rates in general and mortgages in
particular.
And although actions of the Federal Reserve can have a direct impact on
the Prime rate, mortgage interest rates are dictated by the trading of
mortgage-backed securities, which are similar to bonds and trade on a
daily basis. This means that the real dynamic at the heart of interest
rate movement is the competitive relationship between stocks and bonds.
Stocks, bonds, and mortgage-backed securities compete for the same
investment dollars on a daily basis. There is literally only so much
money to be invested. When the Federal Reserve feels that interest rates
need to be decreased in an effort to stimulate the economy, this
reduction in rates can often cause a stock market rally. When the market
becomes bullish, the money to invest in stocks comes from the selling
off of other investments, including mortgage-backed securities.
Unfortunately, when mortgage-backed securities are sold off to fuel
stock market rallies, this causes interest rates to go up, not down.
Historically, there have been many instances where the Federal Reserve
has increased interest rates, arousing fears that corporate profit
margins would be affected. This resulted in stocks being sold off,
leading money managers to search for a place to invest their newly
liquidated assets until the next market rally. One such safe haven has
been mortgage-backed securities, which cause mortgage rates to drop.
The daily ebb and flow of money is what matters most when it comes to
the movement of mortgage interest rates. I make it a point to
continuously monitor interest rates for my clients and advise them of
opportunities to manage their mortgage debt at a better rate. This is
the foundation of my business model as a trusted advisor.
If it’s been 12 months or longer since you last reviewed your mortgage,
please call me. We’ll analyze your financial situation together and create a plan that’s
right for you.
For a free lending consultation you can reach Kristi Hunt, with One On One Mortgage, at (801) 420-8115.
