Mortgage rates hit 2025 low as homebuyers catch a break

Homebuyers can usher in 2026 with a little relief as mortgage rates fell to the lowest level of 2025 in the final report of the year. 

Freddie Mac's latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, released Wednesday, showed the average rate on the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage decreased to 6.15% from last week's reading of 6.18%. 

The average rate on a 30-year loan started the year around 7%. 

"After starting the year close to 7%, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage moved to its lowest level in 2025 this week...