The fall market is currently playing in favor to buyers, as the sell-off in the stock market has rates going lower than what we saw in September. At the end of September, the average rate on the more-common 30-year fixed mortgage was at 3.7%, but we then saw a drop to 3.62% by the first week of October, according to the Mortgage News Daily.

In a larger scheme, rates are also about 1.25% lower than they were at this time last year. In order to give you a perspective on savings, that means the average borrower taking out at $300,000 mortgage is saving about $225 on their monthly payment, or $2,700 per year, or $81,000 over the life of the mortgage.

What does that all mean for buyers? More buying power!

Not only has the lower interest rates improved a buyer’s affordability, but compared to last year, the market for new homes is greater as well. So, not only is there more inventory for a buyer to look at, but now they can possibly search at a higher price point.

Many renters are finding this is a great time to stop throwing away their money each month, and to instead buy a home. Although home prices are still rising, the gains have been cooling, and it’s an important time to take advantage of the low rates.