Mortgage Rates on August 19, 2026: Slight Increases for Long-Term Loans
On Wednesday, August 19, 2026, mortgage rates showed mixed movements amid a relatively calm bond market. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose slightly to 6.55%, while the 15-year and 5/1 ARM rates decreased by seven and eight basis points respectively. Zillow data indicates that despite recent volatility in the bond market, mortgage rate changes have been modest this week. Refinance rates also showed similar trends: the average 30-year fixed refinance rose to 6.58%, while both the 15-year and 5/1 ARM refinance rates declined slightly compared to Tuesday's figures. VA loan rates remained stable or decreased across most terms, with a notable drop in the 30-year VA rate to 6.01%. The article also highlights Zillow’s mortgage calculator as a tool for borrowers to estimate their monthly payments based on different interest rates and down payment amounts.
Topics: bond market volatility mortgage rates refinance rates