Introduction
On February 17, 2026, mortgage rates show a subtle shift that could open new doors for homebuyers and refinancers alike. Credit unions are offering competitive options, with Potlatch No 1 Financial’s 15-year fixed rate at an attractive 4.75%, standing out as the lowest purchase rate available today. Zillow’s data confirms a slight dip in jumbo loan rates, with the 30-year fixed jumbo at 6.143% inching down by a few basis points over the past week. While inflation expectations remain steady, as seen in the Federal Reserve’s breakeven inflation rates, borrowers might find this moment ripe to evaluate their mortgage choices carefully. Here’s what you need to know before locking in a rate , understanding these subtle movements can help you save thousands over your loan term.
New Purchase - VA 15 yrs Fixed
Lender
2026-02-17
(Current Day)
(Current Day)
2026-02-10
(7 Days Ago)
(7 Days Ago)
2026-02-02
(15 Days Ago)
(15 Days Ago)
2026-01-18
(30 Days Ago)
(30 Days Ago)
2026-01-03
(45 Days Ago)
(45 Days Ago)
2025-12-19
(60 Days Ago)
(60 Days Ago)
2025-11-19
(90 Days Ago)
(90 Days Ago)
2025-08-21
(180 Days Ago)
(180 Days Ago)
5.50%
4.88%
-62.5 bps
4.88%
-62.5 bps
4.99%
-51 bps
4.99%
-51 bps
4.99%
-51 bps
5.13%
-37.5 bps
4.88%
5.00%
+12.5 bps
5.00%
+12.5 bps
4.75%
-12.5 bps
5.00%
+12.5 bps
5.00%
+12.5 bps
5.25%
+37.5 bps
5.25%
+37.5 bps
4.75%
4.75%
4.63%
-12.5 bps
4.50%
-25 bps
4.63%
-12.5 bps
4.63%
-12.5 bps
4.75%
4.88%
4.88%
4.88%
4.75%
-12.5 bps
4.88%
4.88%
5.00%
+12.5 bps
5.25%
+37.5 bps
New Purchase - VA 30 yrs Fixed
Lender
2026-02-17
(Current Day)
(Current Day)
2026-02-10
(7 Days Ago)
(7 Days Ago)
2026-02-02
(15 Days Ago)
(15 Days Ago)
2026-01-18
(30 Days Ago)
(30 Days Ago)
2026-01-03
(45 Days Ago)
(45 Days Ago)
2025-12-19
(60 Days Ago)
(60 Days Ago)
2025-11-19
(90 Days Ago)
(90 Days Ago)
2025-08-21
(180 Days Ago)
(180 Days Ago)
4.75%
5.38%
+62.5 bps
5.38%
+62.5 bps
5.38%
+62.5 bps
5.25%
+50 bps
5.38%
+62.5 bps
5.49%
+74 bps
5.38%
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.63%
+25 bps
5.63%
+25 bps
5.38%
5.50%
+12.5 bps
5.63%
+25 bps
5.38%
5.63%
+25 bps
5.63%
+25 bps
5.88%
+50 bps
6.00%
+62.5 bps
6.13%
5.25%
-87.5 bps
6.25%
+12.5 bps
6.25%
+12.5 bps
6.38%
+25 bps
6.38%
+25 bps
6.75%
+62.5 bps
5.00%
5.25%
+25 bps
5.25%
+25 bps
5.38%
+37.5 bps
5.38%
+37.5 bps
5.38%
+37.5 bps
5.38%
+37.5 bps
5.50%
5.63%
+12.5 bps
5.50%
5.50%
5.63%
+12.5 bps
5.75%
+25 bps
5.75%
+25 bps
6.13%
+62.5 bps
AVADIAN CREDIT UNION
On February 17, 2026, the 30-Year VA Fixed Purchase mortgage rate remains steady at 5.125%, unchanged from one week ago but down 25 basis points compared to 30 days prior. This yield spread contraction lowers the cost of borrowing for veterans seeking a fixed-rate mortgage, providing more predictable monthly payments amid recent market fluctuations. First-time buyers and those relying on government-backed loans can benefit from this stable rate environment, which supports long-term financial planning. Given the absence of upward pressure in the past week, members should evaluate their mortgage strategy carefully; those prioritizing payment certainty may consider locking in fixed rates now, while others might assess refinancing options if savings exceed associated costs. For details, visit https://www.avadiancu.com/Rates/Mortgage-Rates.
CAPITAL CREDIT UNION
As of February 17, 2026, Federal VA fixed-rate mortgages for both 15-year and 30-year purchase loans remain steady at 5.0% and 5.5%, respectively. These rates show no change over the past week or month, indicating stable yield spreads and consistent borrowing costs for veterans seeking to purchase a home. The 15-year VA fixed rate at 5.0% represents the lowest rate option available today, offering a potentially lower total interest expense over the loan term compared to the 30-year alternative.
For members prioritizing predictable payments, these fixed rates provide clear cost expectations without short-term fluctuations. Veterans considering home purchases can evaluate these options in light of their financial goals; shorter terms may yield faster equity buildup despite slightly higher monthly payments.
Given the current rate stability, members should consider their long-term mortgage strategy carefully and assess refinancing only if it results in meaningful savings exceeding associated costs. For details, visit https://www.capitalcu.com/mortgage-rates.
CREDIT UNION WEST CREDIT UNION
As of February 17, 2026, the 30-Year Fixed Purchase mortgage rate stands at 4.75% with 1.75 points, marking a significant decline of 62.5 basis points compared to one week and one month ago. This reduction lowers the cost of borrowing for long-term buyers seeking stable payments. Conversely, the 15-Year Fixed Purchase rate has increased by 62.5 basis points over the past week to 5.50%, representing a notable rise in yield spreads for shorter-term fixed loans.
For members prioritizing predictability, the decreased 30-year fixed rate may provide more affordable monthly obligations, benefiting first-time homebuyers or those locking in long-term financing. Meanwhile, the upward movement in the 15-year fixed suggests higher short-term financing costs, which may influence borrowers considering accelerated payoff strategies.
Evaluate your mortgage strategy accordingly; those valuing payment stability should consider fixed-rate options while monitoring market shifts closely. For details, visit https://www.cuwest.org/borrowing/mortgages/purchasing-a-home.
EDUCATORS CREDIT UNION
As of February 17, 2026, the 15-year Fixed VA purchase loan remains steady at a competitive 5.00%, showing no change over the past week or month. This consistent rate supports veterans seeking shorter-term fixed financing with predictable payments and stable borrowing costs. Meanwhile, the 30-year Fixed VA purchase loan has decreased by 12.5 basis points to 5.375%, marking a notable easing compared to rates 7 and 30 days ago. This reduction may enhance affordability for veterans prioritizing lower monthly payments over a longer term.
Members should evaluate their mortgage strategy considering these movements: those valuing payment stability might prefer the 15-year Fixed VA option, while others could benefit from refinancing or purchasing with the lowered 30-year Fixed VA rate to reduce long-term interest expenses. Consider your financial horizon and cost-benefit analysis before deciding.
For details, visit https://www.ecu.com/personal-banking/home-loans/buy-a-home/#rates.
ENT CREDIT UNION
On February 17, 2026, VA 15-Year Fixed Purchase loans offer the lowest rate at 4.875%, down 12.5 basis points from last week but up slightly by 12.5 basis points over the past 30 days. Meanwhile, the VA 30-Year Fixed Purchase rate stands at 5.375%, also down 12.5 basis points week-over-week with no change compared to a month ago. These shifts reflect modest tightening in yield spreads for shorter terms, slightly increasing the cost of borrowing over a longer horizon.
For veterans and first-time homebuyers, the decline in short-term fixed rates may enhance affordability on quicker amortization schedules, while stable 30-year rates support longer-term planning without increased monthly payment pressure. Members considering new purchases should evaluate fixed-rate options to secure predictable payments amid recent volatility.
Given these trends, members might consider refinancing if potential savings outweigh transaction costs or adjust mortgage strategies to balance term length with interest expense.
For details, visit https://www.ent.com/rates/#:~:text=Mortgage%20purchase%20rates
MOUNTAIN AMERICA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
As of February 17, 2026, the 15-year VA fixed-rate purchase loan is at a notable low of 4.875%, down 25 basis points compared to last week, reflecting a reduction in borrowing costs for veterans seeking shorter-term financing. The 30-year VA fixed-rate purchase loan remains stable at 5.25%, unchanged over the past 7 and 30 days, indicating consistent long-term yield spreads for extended terms.
For veterans prioritizing lower monthly payments and rate stability, the unchanged 30-year rate suggests steady cost expectations. Meanwhile, the decline in the 15-year rate may encourage those aiming to build equity faster with reduced interest expenses. Members should assess their financial goals and consider fixed-rate options if they value predictability or evaluate refinancing opportunities if savings exceed associated costs.
For details, visit https://www.macu.com/rates/home.
NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
As of February 17, 2026, the 15-year Fixed VA loan remains steady at 4.75% with 0.5 points, matching last week’s rate and reflecting a 12.5 basis point decline compared to 45 days ago. This stable yield benefits veterans seeking shorter-term financing by preserving borrowing costs amid recent market fluctuations. Conversely, the 30-year Fixed Military Choice program rose sharply by 87.5 basis points from last week to 6.125% with 0.5 points, marking a notable increase in long-term borrowing costs for service members and first-time buyers. This upward shift suggests higher yield spreads impacting affordability on extended terms. Members should consider locking in fixed rates if prioritizing payment predictability or evaluate refinancing strategies when cost reductions surpass associated fees. For details, visit https://www.navyfederal.org/loans-cards/mortgage/mortgage-rates.html.
PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
As of February 17, 2026, the 30-year Fixed VA Loan for Purchase shows a decline to 5.00%, marking a notable decrease of 25 basis points compared to one week ago and 37.5 basis points lower than 30 days prior. This reduction in yield spreads directly lowers the cost of borrowing for eligible veterans and service members pursuing home purchases. For first-time buyers or those relying on VA benefits, this presents an opportunity to secure more favorable financing terms with predictable monthly payments. Given these shifts, members should consider fixed-rate options if they prioritize payment stability and evaluate their mortgage strategies carefully to optimize long-term affordability. Assess refinancing possibilities if current savings exceed associated costs.
POTLATCH NO. 1 FINANCIAL CREDIT UNION
As of February 17, 2026, the 15-Year Fixed Purchase mortgage rate stands at 4.75%, unchanged over the past week but up by 25 basis points compared to 30 days ago. This rise increases the cost of borrowing for buyers seeking shorter-term fixed loans, potentially impacting monthly payments and total interest paid. The 30-Year Fixed Purchase mortgage rate remains steady at 5.25%, showing no change over both the past week and month, offering stability for long-term financing.
Members considering home purchases should weigh these rate dynamics carefully; first-time buyers may find that locking in a fixed-rate loan now secures predictable payments amid recent short-term rate volatility. For those evaluating their mortgage strategy, especially on shorter terms, monitoring yield spreads and potential refinancing opportunities is advisable as market conditions evolve.
Consider fixed-rate options if you value payment stability or assess refinancing if long-term savings exceed associated costs. For details, visit https://www.p1fcu.org/personal/mortgage-rates.
WHATCOM EDUCATIONAL CREDIT UNION
As of February 17, 2026, the VA 15-Year Fixed Purchase mortgage holds the lowest rate at 4.875%, unchanged over the past week but up by 12.5 basis points compared to 30 days ago. This stability benefits veterans and active-duty buyers seeking shorter-term financing with predictable payments. Conversely, the VA 30-Year Fixed Purchase rate decreased by 12.5 basis points week-over-week to 5.50%, maintaining its yield spread relative to a month ago. This adjustment slightly lowers the long-term borrowing cost for those prioritizing extended terms and lower monthly payments. Members should assess whether locking in a fixed rate aligns with their financial horizon; consider fixed-rate options if you value payment certainty or evaluate refinancing opportunities when rate reductions exceed closing costs. For details, visit https://www.wecu.com/homeloans/purchase/.
Zillow National Average
As of February 17, 2026, mortgage rates are mixed. The 15-Year Fixed Rate Jumbo increased to 6.188%, up by 0.06% from yesterday, while the 30-Year Fixed Rate Jumbo saw a slight rise to 6.143%, reflecting only a 0.01% increase. Over the past week, the 30-Year Fixed Rate Jumbo has experienced a minor decline of 0.01%, indicating a stable borrowing environment. In the last month, this product has decreased by 0.18%, suggesting potential cost savings for borrowers considering longer-term financing options. Monitoring these fluctuations can help borrowers make informed decisions regarding their mortgage choices as rates remain relatively stable overall.
Federal Reserve Economic Trends
As of February 17, 2026, inflation expectations are reflected in the Breakeven Inflation Rates, with the 10-Year rate dropping by 2.27 points and the 5-Year rate decreasing by 2.42 points in just one day. This decline signals a potential easing of inflation concerns, which may influence mortgage rates and overall borrowing costs. Notably, the Mortgage 30-Year Jumbo Average Rate has fallen significantly, by 6.25 points over the past week and 6.34 points over the last month, indicating a trend towards more favorable borrowing conditions for consumers. The current lowest mortgage rate shown is for the 15-Year average, at 5.380%. Borrowers should consider these shifts when assessing their mortgage options as rates continue to adjust in response to inflation data.
LendMesh
At LendMesh, we know that the best mortgage is the one that fits your life, not just your budget. Maybe you’re ready to upgrade for more space, or perhaps you’re downsizing to something simpler. Our platform brings together trusted names from the banking and credit union world, letting you compare rates, terms, and even lender philosophies. We see ourselves as your financial partner—here to guide, explain, and empower. If you’re looking for a new way to shop for home loans, or you just want to check if your current deal is the best one out there, our Mortgage Loans page is a great place to start: https://www.lendmesh.com/loans/mortgage_loans . At LendMesh, your goals are always at the heart of our advice.
Conclusion
As you consider your next steps in buying or refinancing, remember even small shifts in rates can impact your monthly payments and total interest significantly. The steady low of 4.75% on a 15-year fixed loan from Potlatch No 1 Financial is worth attention if shorter terms fit your budget and goals. For those eyeing longer terms or jumbo loans, keep an eye on Zillow’s slight decreases , they signal a market gently moving in favor of borrowers. Stay informed about inflation trends since they influence future rate changes and purchasing power. Ultimately, weighing these factors will help you make a confident choice that balances cost with long-term financial health. Taking action now could mean locking in savings that grow with every payment made down the road.