The seasonally adjusted purchase index rose by 2% from the last report to its highest level since May 2010. On an unadjusted basis, the composite index increased 16% week-over-week. Year-over-year the unadjusted purchase index is up 21% for the week and 16% year-over-year.
The share of refinancings dropped slightly from 79% to 78%. Low mortgage rates and affordable prices are attracting more buyers.
The average contract interest rate for a conforming 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose from 3.67% to 3.73%. The rate for a jumbo 30-year fixed-rate mortgage increased from 3.95% to 3.96%. The average interest rate for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage fell from 2.95% to 3%.
The contract interest rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage increased from 2.60% to 2.72%.
The drop in new household formation that began during the financial crisis of 2009 may finally be over. Home prices are rising as more buyers come into the market. Mortgage interest rates are rising slowly, but higher demand from buyers will do that.
Credit Card Companies Are Doing Something Nuts
Credit card companies are at war. The biggest issuers are handing out free rewards and benefits to win the best customers.
It’s possible to find cards paying unlimited 1.5%, 2%, and even more today. That’s free money for qualified borrowers, and the type of thing that would be crazy to pass up. Those rewards can add up to thousands of dollars every year in free money, and include other benefits as well.
We’ve assembled some of the best credit cards for users today. Don’t miss these offers because they won’t be this good forever.
Flywheel Publishing has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Flywheel Publishing and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
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