Jessica Lautz, NAR's deputy chief economist, said in a recent statement that homebuyers should stop focusing so much on mortgage rates: "Regardless the reason, homebuyers waiting on the sidelines for rates to drop will likely be waiting a long time."

If you use credit cards for convenience, repay your balance before your monthly statement is issued to lower your credit utilization ratio. Is it harder to qualify for a 15-year mortgage?

Prospective homebuyers seeking ways to afford a mortgage might be wondering whether they can negotiate to get a lower mortgage rate. Read on for more details.

However, with the market continuing to shift more in favor of homebuyers, home prices should move lower, aiding affordability in the weeks ahead.

Mortgage rates were down a bit, but are not moving meaningfully, even as home prices keep climbing. Many buyers need assistance with down payments.