Mortgage rates fall ahead of Christmas holiday

Mortgage Rates - The average rate on the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage decreased to 6.18% from 6.21% last week, down from 6.85% a year ago [1] - The average rate on a 15-year fixed mortgage rose to 5.5% from 5.47% last week [7] Economic Indicators - The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported a third-quarter GDP growth of 4.3%, surpassing economists' expectations of 3.3% [5] - The consumer price index rose 0.2% in November from the prior month and increased 2.7% year-over-year, both figures lower than economists' projections [6] Labor Market - Employers added 64,000 jobs in November, with the unemployment rate rising to 4.6%, the highest since September 2021 [7] Market Outlook - Higher inventory levels compared to last year may provide buyers with a better rate environment entering the new year [9] - If mortgage rates stabilize or decrease slightly, buyers could experience increased purchasing power in 2026, following two slow housing years [10]