U.S. mortgage rates continue to rise, nearing 7%

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U.S. mortgage rate continue to rise

Freddie Mac released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey, showing the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.90%.

"Strong incoming economic and inflation data has caused the market to re-evaluate the path of monetary policy, leading to higher mortgage rates,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist. “Historically, the combination of a vibrant economy and modestly higher rates did not meaningfully impact the housing market. The current cycle is different than historical norms, as housing affordability is so low that good economic news equates to bad news for homebuyers, who are sensitive to even minor shifts in affordability.”

The 30-year FRM averaged 6.90% as of February 22, 2024, up from last week when it averaged 6.77%. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.50%.

The 15-year FRM averaged 6.29%, up from last week when it averaged 6.12%. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.76%.