US mortgage rates rise to highest level since August of last year Odaily Planet Daily News: This week, US mortgage rates have risen to their highest level since August last year, which is undoubtedly another piece of bad news for homebuyers. Currently, it is usually the busiest period for real estate sales in a year. Mortgage institution Freddie Mac announced on Thursday that the average interest rate for 30-year fixed mortgage loans has risen to 6.51% this week, higher than last week's 6.36%. In addition, the rising costs of home insurance and property taxes in many regions have also deterred buyers. The increase in mortgage interest rates this year has reversed the downward trend since the second half of 2025. However, the current mortgage interest rates are still lower than a year ago, and some buyers are also taking advantage of the sluggish market to enter. According to data from the American Mortgage Bankers Association, the number of mortgage applications for home purchases decreased last week compared to the previous week, but increased by 8% year-on-year. (Golden Ten)