The average rate on a 30-year U.S. mortgage fell for the fourth week in a row to its lowest level in more than a year. Lower mortgage rates boost homebuyers’ purchasing power. They also benefit homeowners eager to refinance their current home loan to a more attractive rate. The average long-term mortgage rate dropped to 6.17% from 6.19% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 6.72%. The last time the average rate was lower was on Oct. 3, 2024, when it was 6.12% ...