Authored by Naveen Athrappully via The Epoch Times,The average weekly rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is at its highest level in nearly a year, contributing to elevated housing costs and dampening buyer interest. This is the highest level since the week ending Aug. 27, 2025, when the rate was at 6.56 percent. Rates have risen consecutively over the past two weeks, from 6.43 percent for the week ending July 1 to 6.55 percent currently. Many buyers are "sitting on the sidelines, too, because they're locked into low mortgage rates or can't find a new home they love." The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index was at 36 in July, the 15th straight month it has remained below the 40 level.