When it comes to mortgage rates, it can be difficult to predict exactly what they will do at any given time. However, it is possible to guess at overall trends. Bankrate.com regularly surveys mortgage lenders and analysts for opinions on whether or not mortgage rates will rise. The latest survey indicates that 50% think mortgage rates will rise, while 25% think they will stay the same and 25% think that they will head lower.

If you are looking to lock in a mortgage rate, you might consider locking in your rate now. It looks as though the “experts” mainly expect mortgage interest rates to rise in the next 30 days. The Mortgage Reports offers a look at the reasons that mortgage rates might rise:

Okay, a couple of things are happening in markets right now and none of them are good for mortgage rates.  If we use our 20/20 Hindsight Glasses, we probably could have seen it coming.

1. Home prices are no longer on a steep decline
2. Consumer Confidence is rising
3. The financial system is returning to profitability

Furthermore, Americans no longer have Recession on the Brain like they did last September and October.  Back then, the financial crisis was the leading story of every news-related show on TV and in print.

With concern over the economic situation no longer paramount, it is little surprise that mortgage interest rates might start to rise. However, the situation is not quite as settled as some would like to believe, and that means that things could change quickly.