30-year mortgage rate

Mortgage Rates Today, July 20, 2026: 30-Year Rates Drop to 6.61% — Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

First‑Time Buyers Sweating to Lock 6.61% Mortgage Rates

First-time buyers can lock the current 6.61% 30-year mortgage rate by securing a rate lock before the weekend, getting pre-approved, and budgeting for closing costs, ensuring they capture the lowest financing cost in two years. Acting quickly protects against the typical mid-week uptick that can add points to a