Mortgage rates rise for fifth straight week as Iran war continues to roil markets

Mortgage rates rose this week as the conflict in Iran continues to weigh on markets, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday.

Freddie Mac's latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, released Thursday, showed the average rate on the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage climbed to 6.46% from last week's reading of 6.38%. 

The average rate on a 30-year loan was 6.64% a year ago.

"With spring homebuying season in full swing, aspiring buyers should remember to shop around for the best mortgage rate...