Despite its recent upward move, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage is still down from 7.22 percent in May, its peak so far this year. In late September, the average rate got as low as 6.08 percent — its lowest level in two years.

Mortgage rates on a 30-year home loan have fluctuated throughout the year, reaching a peak of 7.22 percent in May. In late September, the average rate dipped to 6.08 percent, the lowest level in two years, after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates. But mortgage rates have since crept higher until this week.

The current median interest rate is 6.99% for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage and 6.25% for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage

The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. edged lower this week, ending a six-week climb. The rate slipped to 6.78% from 6.79% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. That’s still down from a year ago, when the rate averaged 7.4%.

Freddie Mac says the average rate on a 30-year mortgage slipped to 6.78% this week, ending a six-week climb

Mortgage rates fell slightly in the week ending Nov. 14, marking the first time weekly rates have gone down since September. The average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage dropped seven basis points to 6.79%, according to rates provided to NerdWallet by Zillow. A basis point is one-one hundredth of a percentage point.

Mortgage experts agree that the right time to lock in a rate depends on your situation. Making your move later this month could offer some advantages. But your timeline, financial readiness and local housing market should guide your decision. The choice isn't just about getting the lowest rate — you must find the right balance for your needs.