Eco-friendly homes are no longer a fringe preference — buyers are actively seeking properties with energy-efficient appliances, solar power, and sustainable building materials, both to reduce their environmental footprint and to lower monthly utility bills. Features like triple-pane windows, tankless water heaters, and smart thermostats are increasingly common asks during home searches.
At the same time, mortgage rates remain a central factor in buyer decision-making. Rates have fluctuated significantly in recent years as the Federal Reserve has adjusted policy in response to inflation, and even small shifts can meaningfully affect monthly payments and overall affordability.
For buyers, understanding how rates are set — and how your credit score, loan type, and down payment affect the rate you’re offered — is essential to budgeting accurately. Locking in a rate at the right time, and shopping multiple lenders, can save thousands over the life of a loan.