December 8, 2011, my friend Jason Gosser over at Guild Mortgage is reporting that 30 year fixed rate loans for Conventional, FHA and VA are all at 4.0% (4.22% APR) right now.  With these rates, it clearly gives the buyer the option of either purchasing more house for the same payment, or buying down and having a significantly lower mortgage payment which frees up funds for other joys in life.

This is still a buyer's market.  Record low interest rates continue to help buyers manage their budget while purchasing the home of their dreams.  There are plenty of homes on the market that make for a very attractive alternative to renting.  The forecast is that it will be a while before we see any significant increase in values.