U.S. mortgage rates declined to their lowest level in nearly a year, prompting more homebuyers and homeowners to apply for loans. The average interest rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage fell to 6.49% in the week ending Sept. 5, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). That is the lowest since October 2024. The lower rates pushed more borrowers to act. Homeowners rushed to refinance, with applications up 12% from the week before and 34% higher than the same week last year, per the MBA. Buyers al ...