15-year conventional mortgage benefits & guidelines

A 15-year fixed-rate conventional mortgage allows you to pay off your mortgage faster and usually with a lower interest rate. And because the interest rate is lower, more of your payments go toward the principal sooner, helping you own more of your home with each payment.

 

 

 

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Why choose a 15-year conventional mortgage? 

You’ll pay less in interest than you would with a 30-year mortgage, which usually comes with a higher interest rate. It also lets you pay off your home faster and achieve financial freedom sooner. 

15-year conventional mortgage guidelines 

To qualify for a 30-year conventional mortgage, you will need: 

  • Down payment of 3% of purchase price 
  • Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio under 43%

If your down payment is less than 20%, you will likely need private mortgage insurance (PMI), which you can potentially remove once you have 20% equity in your home. You can also pay more than the minimum monthly payment to help build equity faster and lower your interest costs over time.  

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15-year fixed

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Rates current as of . National Average Rates. OBMMI calculates national averages from actual locked rates across 35% of all mortgage transactions nationwide using borrower attributes to provide configurable trending of rates over time. Data is provided for informational use only and is not advertised as available pricing from Rate.

What are the current 15-year conventional mortgage rates?

Rates for a 15-year mortgage can vary depending on factors like your financial profile, the economy and local housing market trends, so stay informed as you plan your home purchase. Use the button to see current rates for a 15-year conventional home loan. See mortgage rate disclaimers for assumptions and details. 

 

How to apply for a 15-year conventional mortgage

Applying for a 15-year conventional mortgage is simple with Rate’s Digital Mortgage. Follow these steps.  

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1. Review your finances

Check your credit score, income, DTI ratio and cash on hand for a down payment. 

 

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2. Gather key documents

In most cases, you’ll need to provide income verification, tax returns, asset statements and personal identification.   

 

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3. Apply online

Once you submit your application, your Loan Officer will help you from there. 

 

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“The Guaranteed Rate Team was very easy to work with! Information was clear and all available through my portal for review at all times. Additionally the team was very responsive to any and all questions we had along the way.”

Rates have fallen. Move now.

Whether you’re buying a home or refinancing, there’s never been a better time to lock in a lower rate.

Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Refinancing your mortgage may increase costs over the term of your loan. Restrictions may apply.  Savings, if any, vary based on the consumer’s credit profile, interest rate availability, and other factors. Contact Rate for current rates. Restrictions apply.