Merry Christmas: 30-year mortgage rates dip lower

Mortgage Rates and Economic Indicators - Mortgage rates have slightly decreased, with the average 30-year mortgage rate at 6.18%, down from 6.21% the previous week, while the 15-year mortgage rate increased to 5.5% from 5.47% [1] - The 10-year Treasury yield, which influences mortgage rates, has shown volatility due to mixed economic data, including a surprising easing of inflation and a strong GDP growth of 4.3% in the third quarter [2] - Mortgage rates have remained stable around 6.2% since mid-September, with expectations of minimal changes in the final week of the year due to a lighter holiday trading schedule [3] Housing Market Activity - The housing market is experiencing a slow period, with expectations of limited fluctuations in mortgage rates during traditionally slow homebuying months [4] - Mortgage applications for home purchases and refinancing have decreased, with purchase applications down 4% and refinancing applications down 6% as the year concludes [4]