Mortgage Rates Rise

The average 30 year mortgage rate rose to a six month high. The average 30 year mortgage rate climbed to 4.84 from 4.66% Many experts predict mortgage rates will continue to sharply rise in the near term. Rates have continued their upward trend despite the Fed announcing to continue their treasury purchasing policy.

The Feds treasury purchasing program has been a major component in rates hitting all time lows. Many experts are surprised that rates continued to climb even after the Fed's announcement.  

Mortgage Rates Continue to Climb

Mortgage rates continue to climb to their 5 month high as investors sell treasuries. This past week rates increased .15% to 4.61% on the average 30 year mortgage. The previous 30 year average was 4.46%. Many borrowers that haven't taken advantage of these records low rates are still scrambling to qualify for a mortgage. Borrowers should speak with their mortgage professional to see if they can qualify and whether they are able to save money refinancing their present mortgage.

Mortgage Applications are Down

Mortgage applications fell last week .09%. While purchase applications increases 1.8%, refinance applications, which are a greater portion of the mortgage application universe, decreased 1.4%.

The increase in the purchase applications is a good sign but it may only be a one time occurrence. It may not be a sign of a strengthening real estate marketing. We will have to wait for more numbers to see if purchase applications continue to trend upwards. Expect refinance applications to fall if mortgage rates continue to rise.