Bankrate.com Mortgage Trend Index (February 14, 2008)

I am a regular participant in the Bankrate.com Mortgage Rate Trend survey and this week's survey is now available.

Note: the survey only covers conforming loans.  If you are a jumbo, Alt-A, or sub-prime mortgage holder, the survey is not for you.  If that's the case, email or call me and we can talk about the specifics of your situation.

Anyway, on to the group's predictions for the next 30 days:

• 46% of participants predict rates will increase
• 23% of participants predict rates will decrease
• 31% of participants predict rates will remain unchanged

I am predicting that rates will increase over the next 30 days, but that doesn't mean you should necessarily follow my advice when choosing whether to lock a rate, or float it.  My advice may not be appropriate for your individual situation.

From the Bankrate.com survey:

"The stimulus package will create inflationary pressures. Mortgage rates will move higher as a result."

Just like the fool in the shower, Congress just turned the heat to full-blast.  Stock markets are recovering, money is being pulled from mortgage bonds, and mortgage rates are up as much as 1.000% in the last 30 days.

On the fence about locking or floating your mortgage rate?  Try this little test to see if your emotional thoughts out-muscle your rational ones.