I am a regular participant in the Bankrate.com Mortgage Rate Trend survey and this week's survey is now available.

It's important to note that the survey only covers Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac conforming loans.  If you are a jumbo, Alt-A, or sub-prime mortgage holder, the survey is not for you.  If that's the case, email or call me and we can talk about the specifics of your situation.

Anyway, on the group's predictions for the next 30-45 days:

• 14% of participants predict rates will increase 
• 50% of participants predict rates will decrease
• 36% of participants predict rates will remain unchanged

I am predicting that rates will decrease over the next 30 days, but that doesn't mean you should necessarily follow my advice when choosing whether to lock a rate, or float it.  My advice may not be appropriate for your individual situation, and I am singling out conforming loan sizes.

From the Bankrate.com survey:

"There is finally evidence that the economy is slowing down. Markets will drive down mortgage rates -- even if the Fed stands pat."

If you are shopping for mortgages, I always recommend that you lock your rate as soon as possible. There is too much downside risk to not locking.

Dan Green is an active loan officer. Email or call 513-443-2020. Dan is on Twitter at @mortgagereports.