Today’s California mortgage and refinance rates — home purchase rates show slight drop | Dec. 22, 2020

By Chris Jennings
Published  December 22, 2020 7:46am PST
Sponsored by Credible, which is majority owned by our parent, Fox Corporation. Credible is solely responsible for its services.

Compare mortgage rates in California for December 22, 2020. Mortgage refinance rates are unchanged, while rates for home purchase are down. (iStock)

According to data compiled by Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS ID Number 1681276, today’s mortgage refinance rates in California have not changed since this time last week.

If you're a California homeowner thinking about refinancing, check out how mortgage refinance rates are looking in the Golden State:

  • 30-year fixed refinance: 2.625%, the same as last week
  • 20-year fixed refinance: 2.500%, the same as last week
  • 15-year fixed refinance: 2.125%, the same as last week

Rates last updated on December 22, 2020. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary.

Fixed refinance rates remain at historic lows overall, with 30-year fixed rates holding steady at an average of 2.625% for 18 straight days.

Think it might be the right time to refinance? Be sure to shop around and compare rates with multiple mortgage lenders. You can do this easily with Credible and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.

Looking at today’s California mortgage rates

Today’s mortgage rates for home purchase in California have fallen since this time last week.

Interested in buying a home in California? Check out how current mortgage rates are looking:

  • 30-year fixed-rate mortgages: 2.500%, the same as last week
  • 20-year fixed-rate mortgages: 2.375%, down from 2.450% last week, -0.125
  • 15-year fixed-rate mortgages: 1.875%, the same as last week

Rates last updated on December 22, 2020. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary.

Despite a slight drop in 20-year fixed rates since last week, 30-year rates for home purchase have held firm at 2.500% for two consecutive weeks.

If you're looking to buy in Los Angeles, you can explore your options in minutes by visiting Credible and comparing rates from multiple mortgage lenders. Check out Credible and get prequalified today.

California mortgage and refinance rate factors

Your credit score, home location, loan amount, and loan term are among the most influential factors when it comes to what mortgage rate you can get in California. You’ll also want to consider larger economic factors, like unemployment numbers, inflation, and market conditions before applying for a loan.

Personal economic factors

  • Credit score
  • Credit history
  • Debt-to-income ratio
  • Down payment size
  • Loan-to-value ratio
  • Loan type, size, and term
  • Location of the property

Larger economic factors

  • 10-year Treasury yields
  • Consumer spending
  • Employment
  • Federal Reserve policies
  • Housing construction and other market conditions
  • Inflation rates
  • Stock and bond markets
  • Strength of the economy

How to get the best mortgage rate

Your mortgage rate is based on a variety of factors, including your credit score, loan amount, the length of your home loan, and more.

If you’re looking to score the best mortgage rate, here are some steps you need to take:

  • Give your credit score a boost. By maximizing your credit score, you put yourself in a better position to receive the best rate.
  • Make a 20% down payment. Home prices in California are high. But the more you put down, the less risk you’ll pose to a lender — which can lead to a better rate. As an added bonus, you’ll avoid costly private mortgage insurance (PMI).
  • Keep your income steady — or increase it. If possible, avoid changing or quitting jobs before applying for a mortgage.
  • Consider a 15-year mortgage. If you can handle the higher monthly payments, consider taking on a 15-year mortgage instead of a 30-year loan. The shorter term means less risk for the lender, and more favorable interest rates for you.

Some first-time homebuyer programs specific to California offer low-interest loans as well, and paying with mortgage points can also qualify you for a lower rate.

California mortgage rates by loan type

The California housing market might be expensive, but you have options. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer shopping for homes in California, or you’re hoping to refinance your mortgage, Credible can help you find the right loan for your real estate needs. You can compare current rates for refinance and home purchase here: