There is now a new era of “historically low” when it comes to mortgage rates and there is nothing like it.

Four years ago when we were all celebrating the arrival of already “historically low” mortgage rates. Back then, they were dancing at around 5.5% for a 30 year fixed mortgage which was truly significant back then because in the preceeding thirty years before that, 30 year fixed mortgages never posted a rate lower than 6.5% and actually climbed to 16+% at one point during the early 90’s.

But now, rates have reached a new low. Thanks to movements by the feds, rates could now hit 4.75% depending on your creditworthiness. That is almost one percent lower than the previous historic lows of half a decade ago. Last month, the national average rate was just a little over 5 percent.

People are aware of this opportunity now and refinancing activities have jumped up by over sixty percent in December, according to the Mortgage Banker’s Association, although these activities only count refinancing applications which may or may not become actual mortgages.

As a rule of thumb, refinancing makes sence if the new rate is about 1% lower than the old mortgage. At this rate it makes more sense any less and the upfront fees make refinancing expensive.

If you are looking to save some extra cash, it might be a good idea to look into refinancing your existing home mortgage. Granted, it may not be for everyone.

Related posts:

1. 5 Reasons to Refinance

2. March 13 – Mortgage Rates Ease Further

3. Mortgage levels falling June 2010 rates

4. An Argument for Home Mortgage Refinancing

5. Mortgage Applications Rise – First Time Three Weeks