va home loan rates today and smarter ways to shop
What today’s rates mean
Mortgage markets shift daily, so va home loan rates today can look different from yesterday’s quotes. Lenders price VA loans using Treasury yields, mortgage-backed security demand, and your profile-credit, debt-to-income, and loan term.
How lenders set VA rates
The VA doesn’t set rates; it guarantees part of the loan. That guarantee often keeps pricing competitive, but closing costs, points, and credits still change the real deal. Ask for the APR and a zero-point option for a clean comparison.
- Lock timing: A 15-, 30-, or 60-day lock can nudge pricing up or down.
- Points vs credits: Paying points lowers the rate; lender credits raise it and cut cash to close.
- Loan purpose: Purchase, refi, or cash-out can price differently.
Real-world impact
On a $300,000 VA loan, a 0.25% difference might change the payment by roughly $40–$60 per month, and many thousands over years.
To shop smart, collect at least three same-day quotes, verify the APR, and request a written Loan Estimate. If you’re close to funding, consider a float-down option to capture improvements in today’s market.