Mortgage rates remained steady as of the week of September 16, 2025, with the 30-year fixed mortgage rate holding at 7.61%. This marks a minor fluctuation from last week but continues the broader trend of relatively high interest rates. The 15-year fixed rate also hovered near recent levels, standing at 6.82%, while the average rate for a 30-year jumbo loan reached 7.53%. High borrowing costs continue to cool buyer demand even as overall housing inventory remains constrained.
Experts suggest locking in today’s rate if you’re planning to purchase a home in the near future, especially as the Federal Reserve signals that more rate hikes may be off the table, but is not expected to lower rates soon. Monthly payments remain significantly higher than in prior years, and affordability remains a challenge for many buyers. Refinance activity is also sluggish, given how many homeowners are still holding on to significantly lower rates obtained during previous years.
For those engaged in Arizona real estate investing, the current rate environment presents both challenges and opportunities. While higher borrowing costs might deter some investors, persistent housing demand in key Arizona markets like Phoenix and Tucson continues to support long-term investment potential. Investors seeking buy-and-hold strategies may find value in locking in rates before any further increases and focusing on rental income to offset financing costs. For news and insights tailored to Arizona, visit the Arizona real estate investing hub.
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