12/10/2025
Yes, the Fed cut interest rates by 0.25%. This does not mean mortgage rates get lowered by 0.25%. The Fed controls the federal funds rate, which affects short-term borrowing like credit cards, auto loans, HELOCs, and business credit. It does not directly change long-term mortgage rates.
Mortgage rates are driven by the bond market, specifically mortgage backed securities. When investors buy or sell these bonds, the pricing on mortgage rates adjusts. As I type this, the UMBS 30YR 5.5% coupon is up 15 basis points. If investors reprice for the better, the discount points on any quoted interest rate will improve.
Here is an example. If yesterday the advertised rate was 5.99% with 0.75 points and pricing improves by 15 basis points, that same 5.99% rate might now cost 0.60 points. On a $500,000 loan amount, that saves you $750 overnight.
Thank you for attending my TED talk. If you want to learn more about all of this, reach out so we can nerd out. 🤓