Mortgage Demand Jumps 10.8% Despite Rising Rates Last Week

Total mortgage application volume increased by 10.8% last week, as reported by the Mortgage Bankers Association. The average contract interest rate for 30-year fixed mortgages rose to 6.60% from 6.57%, while refinancing applications surged 15% and were up 20% year-on-year. Furthermore, mortgage applications for home purchases increased by 7% week over week and rose 4% compared to the same week last year. The ARM share of total applications also increased to 8.6%, with a five-year ARM average rate at 5.96%.