Mortgage Volumes Shrink, But Loan Sizes Increase

Homeowners across Texas are seeing new opportunities as mortgage rates continue their gradual decline. As refinancing becomes a more attractive option, understanding the timing, process, and potential benefits is critical. LBC Capital provides expert support and personalized solutions to help Texans take full advantage of today’s market shift.

Mortgage Rates on a Downward Trend

Mortgage rates are finally showing signs of relief after months of volatility. As of late August 2025, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has dipped to around 6.56%, its lowest point since October 2024. This trend reflects a broader easing in the market, driven by falling Treasury yields, changing economic conditions, and growing expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut.

For homeowners in Texas, where home values have risen sharply over the past few years, this decline offers a unique window to refinance and lower monthly payments—or to access equity through cash-out refinancing.

Refinancing Activity Picks Up Across the U.S.

As mortgage rates fall, homeowners nationwide are responding. Refinancing activity has seen a noticeable increase. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, refinance applications surged by 23% in recent months. Cash-out refinancing is also making a comeback, with more borrowers choosing to access the equity in their homes to pay off high-interest debt, finance home improvements, or cover other large expenses.

The renewed interest in refinancing is more than a trend—it’s a reflection of changing consumer behavior. Many homeowners who bought homes when rates were in the 7% range are now seeing significant savings potential. LBC Capital provides guidance on whether refinancing makes sense based on each homeowner’s financial goals and the structure of their current loan.

Why Texans Are in a Strong Position

Texas homeowners are uniquely positioned to benefit from this refinancing momentum. Thanks to steady population growth, strong job markets, and high demand in cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, property values have remained strong. That means many homeowners now have significant equity built up in their homes.

Recent data from Bankrate shows that refinancing applications in Texas increased by 42% year-over-year as of May 2025. Even with home prices cooling slightly in certain metros, equity levels remain high—creating an ideal situation for both rate-and-term refinancing and cash-out refis.

Housing costs have also decreased modestly in several Texas markets. Redfin reports show that monthly housing expenses in Austin dropped by 1.1%, while Dallas saw a 1.0% decrease. These changes, while small, contribute to a more favorable climate for refinancing in the state.

Is Now the Right Time to Refinance?

Refinancing can provide meaningful financial relief—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. LBC Capital works with Texas homeowners to determine whether now is the right time to refinance, based on their unique circumstances.

Evaluate Your Current Interest Rate

If your current mortgage interest rate is more than 0.50% higher than today’s average rate, refinancing could result in substantial monthly savings. Even a modest drop in interest rate can have a noticeable impact over the life of your loan.

Calculate the Break-Even Point

The break-even point refers to how long it takes for your monthly savings to cover the cost of refinancing. On average, a 0.50% drop in interest rate reaches the break-even point in about 3.1 years. A 0.75% reduction often leads to breakeven in under three years. If you plan to stay in your home for several more years, the savings can be significant.

Long-Term Homeownership Plans

Homeowners planning to remain in their homes for five or more years are typically well-positioned to benefit from refinancing. If you expect to move within a short period, you’ll want to carefully assess whether the upfront costs are worth it.

Understanding the Value of Cash-Out Refinancing

Cash-out refinancing allows you to take out a new mortgage for more than you owe and pocket the difference. This option can be particularly attractive to homeowners who want to:

  • Consolidate high-interest debt
  • Pay for major renovations
  • Fund education or healthcare expenses
  • Invest in other assets

Even if interest rates are higher than they were two or three years ago, the value of accessing low-cost capital through your home equity can outweigh the increase in rate. LBC Capital helps homeowners understand the full financial picture and determine if a cash-out refi aligns with their goals.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs): A Flexible Option

While fixed-rate loans are still the most common, adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) are becoming more attractive. ARMs offer lower initial interest rates for a set period—often five, seven, or ten years—after which the rate adjusts annually based on market conditions.

In today’s environment, ARMs are averaging closer to 5.5%—a full percentage point below many fixed-rate options. For homeowners who plan to move or refinance again within a few years, ARMs may offer meaningful short-term savings. LBC Capital provides detailed comparisons between fixed and adjustable rates to help you choose the right structure for your financial outlook.

How LBC Capital Supports Texas Homeowners

Refinancing can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. LBC Capital ensures that every client receives tailored advice, fast service, and access to the most competitive rates available.

Personalized Loan Analysis

We review your existing loan details, including balance, interest rate, and loan term. Then we compare current market rates and outline your refinancing options—showing you exactly how much you could save each month and over the life of your loan.

Fixed vs Adjustable Rate Guidance

Our team walks you through the pros and cons of each loan structure, including fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages. We help you align your mortgage terms with your personal and financial goals.

Access to Multiple Lenders

As a trusted mortgage broker, LBC Capital partners with a wide network of lenders. That allows us to find competitive rates, flexible terms, and fast approvals—without the hassle of shopping multiple lenders on your own.

Cash-Out Opportunity Evaluation

We evaluate how much equity you can access, what the new loan would look like, and whether tapping into your home’s value is a smart move. If it is, we’ll make the process smooth and stress-free from application to closing.

Refinancing Is More Than Just Lower Rates

While a lower interest rate is the most common reason to refinance, there are other benefits that may apply. You might want to change your loan term—from 30 years to 15—or switch from an FHA loan to a conventional loan to remove mortgage insurance. LBC Capital helps you think strategically and long-term, guiding you to the right decision based on your entire financial picture.

Final Thoughts: Take Advantage While Rates Are Low

Refinancing momentum is growing as rates trend down. For Texas homeowners, the current environment offers a real opportunity to save money, reduce debt, or access the equity you’ve built. But timing is important. Rates remain volatile, and the window to secure lower terms could close quickly if market conditions shift.

LBC Capital provides the experience, local knowledge, and trusted service you need to act with confidence. Whether you’re looking to reduce your monthly payment or leverage your home equity, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.