Mortgage rates inched up at the start of the year to the highest level in nearly six months, portending another tough year ...

Mortgage rates climbed again for a third consecutive week to the since since July, with the 30-year fixed-rate average rising to just under 7% as the housing market remains stalled.

Demand for mortgages in the final week of 2024 fell sharply, a combination of holiday market slowness and rates near 7%, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

Understanding market trends and evaluating your financial standing can help you decide when to purchase a home.