Lock now, or roll the dice for another week?

Today's average 30-year fixed rate is 6.375%. That's still near the best we've seen in weeks.

The next move could go either way. Inflation isn't cooling fast enough, and the people who set the economy's speed limit aren't done tapping the brakes. That means rates could jump if the next batch of numbers looks worse.

A lock today protects you from that bounce. For most buyers, certainty beats guessing.

A 30-day lock costs you nothing and caps your rate while you close.

If you're payment-sensitive and want a lower starting number, a 40-year interest-only option runs around 6.625% today. It's fixed for all 40 years, with interest-only payments up front. Not for everyone, but it's one more tool when affordability is tight.

I answer my own phone. If you want to run your numbers or talk through timing, call me at 949-350-8005.

Informational only, not a commitment to lend, rates subject to change. Brett Hickman NMLS 2010859, Home First Financial NMLS 2465048, Equal Housing Lender.