Refinance rates on 30-year mortgages subtracted another 2 basis points Monday, lowering the national average to 6.27%. That's now the lowest reading for 30-year refi rates in almost two weeks. But it's also about a quarter percentage point above the Sept. 16 low of 6.01%—the cheapest level seen in 19 months.

Borrowers are finally starting to see signs of hope. Mortgage rates are at their lowest point in 18 months—and expected to fall further—after the Federal Reserve cut short-term interest rates by 0.50% or 50 basis points for the first time since the onset of the pandemic.

With so many factors driving mortgage interest rates, it's worth monitoring each day. But the following three dates could be particularly influential:

Refinancing your mortgage can help you get a lower monthly payment. You also have the opportunity to change up your loan type and term. A cash-out refinance is another mortgage refinancing option that lets you convert home equity into cash. That lump sum could pay for a home renovation or to retire high-interest credit card or student loan debt.

If you ever thought about refinancing your mortgage, your goal is probably to find a lower interest rate and reduce your monthly payments. After all, most homeowners aren't inclined to trade in their current mortgage rate for a more expensive one.

Mortgage interest rates could still fall in October, even without a Fed meeting. Here's what could cause that drop.

Jerome Powell and the Federal Reserve did as expected on Sept. 18, cutting the benchmark interest rate by 50 basis points to 4.75% to 5%. This is a sign that inflation has mostly been tamed. It also suggests that mortgage rates will follow suit,

Key Takeaways - When Should You Refinance an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage? Adjustable-rate mortgage loans grew more popular in 2022 thanks to a record surge in mortgage rates. Favorable short-term introductory rates can make ARMs an attractive option for some homebuyers.