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Will the upcoming election impact my interest rate?

2024/05/28
Interestrates AFMRE

Are you wondering how the upcoming election will impact interest rates? The short answer is probably not much. While interest rates dropped to record lows in 2020, other factors, like the pandemic, were at play.

What are the biggest factors that affect your interest rate? They are:

  • Credit history: low scores or a short credit history can mean a higher interest rate.
  • Loan length and type: Shorter loans could mean lower interest rates compared to longer loans, or adjustable-rate loans may be lower than fixed interest rates. Most land loans are a maximum of 20 years.
  • Down payment: the larger the down payment, the lower the interest rate.
  • Inflation: High inflation can mean high interest rates. The Fed has raised interest rates to slow the economy and, therefore, cool inflation. While this has been helpful, additional cooling will likely be required before interest rates come down.

If you want to know more about your purchasing power, reach out to the professionals at AFM Real Estate. We will help you realize your purchasing power and find your dream property!

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Probably not much. While interest rates dropped to record lows in 2020, other factors such as the pandemic were largely responsible for that change. Elections themselves are generally not considered a major driver of interest rate movement.

  • There are several key factors that influence your interest rate. Your credit history matters a great deal, since low scores or a short credit history can result in a higher rate. The length and type of loan also play a role, as shorter loans may carry lower rates compared to longer ones, and adjustable-rate loans may start lower than fixed-rate options. Most land loans have a maximum term of 20 years. Finally, your down payment size and the current inflation environment both affect the rate you receive, with larger down payments and lower inflation generally leading to better rates.

  • High inflation tends to push interest rates higher. The Federal Reserve has raised interest rates as a way to slow economic activity and cool inflation. While those efforts have had some effect, additional cooling will likely be needed before interest rates come down significantly.

  • Yes. The larger the down payment you are able to make, the lower your interest rate is likely to be. This is one of the most direct ways a buyer can influence the rate they receive on a land loan.

  • You can reach out directly to the professionals at AFM Real Estate, who will help you assess your purchasing power and work with you to find a property that fits your goals and financial situation.