ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. - s4story -- ichelle Ortelli Shares Three Ways St. Johns County Homebuyers Can Improve Their Mortgage Rate Opportunities

New Realtor.com research highlights how credit scores, down payments and lender comparisons may help buyers secure more favorable mortgage terms.

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla., Oct. 13, 2026 — How can St. Johns County homebuyers improve their chances of qualifying for a lower mortgage rate?

Strengthening credit, evaluating down payment options and comparing lenders may help borrowers obtain more favorable financing terms, according to recent Realtor.com research.

Michelle Ortelli, Realtor with The Ortelli Team - Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty, is sharing these findings to help St. Johns County buyers make informed mortgage decisions.

Realtor.com's October 2026 research examined Freddie Mac loan data and identified meaningful differences in mortgage rates among borrowers.

The study highlighted three factors:

1. Credit scores: Improving a credit score from approximately 680 to 720 was associated with an 11-basis-point mortgage rate reduction.

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2. Down payments: Crossing the 10% down payment threshold was associated with an approximately 5.5-basis-point improvement.

3. Lender selection: Comparing lenders may reveal differences in mortgage pricing, even among borrowers with similar financial characteristics.

"For buyers in St. Johns County, the mortgage rate they qualify for can be just as important as the home's purchase price. I encourage buyers to understand their credit, explore down payment options and compare lenders early. The goal is not just the lowest advertised rate, but financing that fits their needs and long-term financial comfort," said Ortelli.

For buyers considering homes in St. Johns County, Ortelli recommends consulting qualified mortgage professionals and comparing the total costs of financing, including lender fees and discount points.

The research examined conventional mortgages acquired by Freddie Mac. It did not include FHA, VA, jumbo or portfolio loans. The findings are national estimates and do not guarantee individual mortgage rates or savings.

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Read Michelle Ortelli's complete article:

https://ortelliteam.com/2026/10/13/michelle-ortelli-shares-three-ways-st-johns-county-homebuyers-can-improve-their-mortgage-rate-opportunities

Research source: Realtor.com, October 2026.

About Michelle Ortelli

Michelle Ortelli is a Realtor with The Ortelli Team - Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty, serving homebuyers, homeowners and relocation clients throughout St. Johns County, St. Augustine and Northeast Florida.

Media Contact: Michelle Ortelli
904-570-8130
mortelli@cbvfl.com

Michelle Ortelli | Trusted Real Estate Advisor in Northeast Florida | Specializing in
Helping Homeowners in St. Augustine | St. Johns County | Northeast Florida Sell with Confidence | Global Luxury | Residential | Relocation | Second Homes | Expired Listings
904-570-8130 | mortelli@cbvfl.com | www.ortelliteam.com