The average interest rate for a 30-year U.S. mortgage has reached 6.85%, an increase from 6.72% the previous week, according to Freddie Mac. This marks the highest level since mid-July, driven by rising bond yields that influence mortgage pricing. In comparison, the average rate was 6.61% a year ago.
The current rate surpasses rates recorded earlier in the year, particularly the two-year low of 6.08% observed in September and the peak of 7.22% in May. Economists predict that mortgage rates will likely stay above 6% into the next year, with some estimates suggesting they could reach as high as 6.8%.
For 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, often preferred by homeowners wishing to refinance, the average rate climbed to 6% from 5.92% the prior week, up from 5.93% a year ago. The rising mortgage rates, combined with increasing home prices, are making home ownership less attainable for many potential buyers. Although existing home sales in the U.S. saw a slight uptick in November, the housing market is experiencing its weakest performance since 1995.
Several factors influence mortgage interest rates, particularly fluctuations in the yield of the 10-year U.S. Treasury note. Recently, bond yields increased following indications from the Federal Reserve that it would likely be less inclined to cut interest rates next year. Although central banks do not directly set mortgage rates, their policies and inflation trends significantly affect Treasury yields.
Looking ahead, the potential impact of President-elect Donald Trump’s policy initiatives on inflation and national debt remains uncertain. These factors could further influence mortgage rates, particularly as inflation and the U.S. budget deficit play critical roles in the movements of Treasury yields. At midday trading on Thursday, the yield was reported at 4.61%, a notable rise from below 3.7% in September.