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What is a float-down option?

Answered by Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Florida licensed mortgage broker

A float-down is a feature on a locked rate that lets you move to a lower rate one time if the market drops by a set amount before closing. It protects you against locking too early in a falling market.

It often costs a small fee or requires a minimum rate improvement to trigger. We'll explain the terms and help you decide whether the float-down is worth adding.

Lock with a safety valve

A float-down option lets you lock your rate but still capture a lower one if the market drops before closing. It combines the protection of a lock with some upside if rates fall.

It usually kicks in only when rates drop by a set amount and often costs a small fee.

Is it worth it

A float-down makes sense when you expect rates might fall but do not want to risk them rising while you wait. You get protection either way.

We will tell you if a float-down fits your situation and its cost. Apply now and we will lay out your lock options.

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Official resources

Verify the details for your own situation against these government and agency sources: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey and Federal Reserve H.15 selected rates.

Related Mortgage Rates Questions

Are mortgage rates the same at every lender?No. Rates and fees vary between lenders because each prices risk and margin differently, which is exactly why a broker helps — we shop multiple lenders to find your best combination of rate and cost.Does a bigger down payment lower my rate?Often yes. A larger down payment lowers your loan-to-value ratio, which can move you into a better rate tier and reduce or eliminate PMI.What is APR vs interest rate?The interest rate is the cost of borrowing the principal; the APR (annual percentage rate) folds in the rate plus most lender fees and points, giving a fuller picture of the loan's yearly cost.
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