Why Don't Lenders Show Mortgage Rates?

When you’re looking for a home loan, you might wonder why it’s so hard to find a lender’s rate online. There’s a good reason for that — actually, several.

Here’s a simple breakdown of why mortgage lenders usually don’t post their rates:

1. Everyone Gets a Different Rate

h4>📊 1. Everyone Gets a Different Rate Your mortgage rate depends on things like your credit score, how much money you’re putting down, and the type of home you’re buying. So the rate you see online might not be the one you get.

📈 2. Rates Change All the Time

Mortgage rates go up and down every day — sometimes more than once. It’s hard for lenders to keep updating them constantly, so they’d rather give you a custom quote.

🤫 3. They Don’t Want to Lose Business

If lenders post their rates online, other companies can see them and offer something just a little cheaper. So instead, they keep rates private and talk to you directly.

📞 4. They Want You to Reach Out

Many lenders prefer that you call or fill out a form. This lets them offer you a loan that fits your exact needs — and sometimes sell you other services too.

🔀 5. Loans Come in Many Shapes

There’s more than one type of mortgage. Rates can change depending on if it’s a fixed or adjustable loan, how long the loan lasts, or if you pay points. One public rate wouldn’t tell the whole story.

⚖️ 6. Rules Can Be Tricky

Sometimes posting a rate could get a lender in trouble — especially if the rate changes later. If they advertise something they can’t promise, that can be a legal issue.

✅ So What Can You Do?

Ask for quotes from a few lenders. It’s free, and you’ll get the best rate for your own situation. Don’t just go with the first number you see online — it might be a “teaser” rate that doesn’t apply to you.