Mortgage rates rise again, finishing the year at 6.85% — just about the way they started

Hey, here’s the scoop: mortgage rates are doing a little dance, and, now, they’re on the rise again. We New Yorkers like to keep it real, and let’s just say the numbers don’t lie. So, let’s dive in and see what’s going on with these rates.

Current Rates and Trends

So, our good friends at Freddie Mac are saying the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is circling the skies at 6.85% as of this week. That’s up from 6.72% just a week ago. And the 15-year guys? Well, they’re clocking in at a neat 6%, up from last week’s 5.92%. It’s the second week on this uptick chart. Funny how things can turn on a dime, isn’t it?

“We had a little dip earlier, but the rates have bounced back up,” Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist, spilled the beans. He also added a tiny bit of optimism, saying the housing market has its mind on business despite a home supply shortage.

What’s Fueling the Rise?

Here’s the lowdown. Just last week, the Federal Reserve had a meeting where they trimmed the interest rate. You’d think this would smooth out the mortgage hustle, but nope. They indicated they’re only going to cut rates twice next year. Folks in the know were betting on four cuts in 2025, but it looks like patience is the name of the game. If you’re interested in how the Fed’s decisions might affect your savings or credit cards, take a look over [here](https://www.example.com).

A Choppy 2024 for Mortgages

This whole year, the 30-year mortgage rates have been bouncing between 6% and 7% like some New York subway train during rush hour. The rates peaked at a jaw-dropping 7.22% in May. But that wasn’t the end of this rollercoaster. They slid to a comfortable 6.08% in September before creeping back up again.

Political and Economic Uncertainties

You know how things can get unpredictable? Well, toss President-elect Donald Trump’s plans into the mix with the Fed’s snail-paced rate cuts, and you’ve got a perfect storm pushing those rates closer to 7%. Funny how politics can shake things up in the most unexpected ways.

What Does This Mean for You?

  • If you’re scoping out real estate, now might be the time to flex that decision-making muscle.
  • A sturdy economy could be a cushion, lifting the market next year.
  • Brace yourself for the turns; it’s what we New Yorkers do best!

For more in-depth insights, scoop out the [latest real estate news and analysis](https://www.example.com). From mortgages to home insurance, Claire Boston’s got you covered, and if you need more financial updates, [this is where you want to go](https://www.example.com).

Stay informed, stay savvy, and remember, this concrete jungle demands a little flexibility from time to time. Keep those eyes on the mortgage market, friends!