How to Get a Lower Mortgage Rate in 2026
By Colson · Reviewed by Abodemic Editorial Standards · Updated June 1, 2026
The biggest levers on your rate are your credit score, down payment, loan term, and whether you buy points — but the most reliable is simply shopping at least three lenders, since rates and fees vary widely for the same borrower on the same loan.
How do you get a lower mortgage rate?
The biggest levers are your credit score, down payment, loan term, and whether you buy points — but the most reliable is shopping at least three lenders, because rates and fees vary widely for the same borrower. Start by comparing the best mortgage lenders.
Improve the factors you control
- Credit: pay down card balances and fix report errors before applying.
- Down payment: reaching 20% removes PMI and can lower your rate.
- Term: 15-year loans carry lower rates than 30-year.
- Points: pay upfront to buy the rate down if you'll stay long enough.
Shop and compare APRs
Compare each lender's APR and itemized fees on the Loan Estimate — not just the headline rate. Mortgage inquiries within a short window count as one for credit scoring, so rate-shopping is safe. Turn each quote into a payment with the mortgage calculator.