Mortgage rates fell in the week before Christmas after being...

Mortgage rates fell in the week before Christmas after being at record lows all year long. Credit: AP, 2007

The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage fell to a record 3.91 percent in the week before Christmas, the third time this year rates have hit new lows.  

Freddie Mac said Thursday the average on the 30-year home loan fell from 3.94 percent the previous week.  The 3.91 percent rate is the lowest average for long-term fixed mortgages on records dating to the 1950s.  The average on 15-year fixed mortgages was unchanged at 3.21 percent, also a record.  
   Low rates offer an opportunity to buy a home or refinance, but many people either can't take advantage of the rates or have already done so.  This year is shaping up to be one of the worst ever for home sales.
Out East: Jamesport Farm Brewery ... Impacts to marine life from power cable? ... Road closures in Suffolk Credit: Newsday

Updated 51 minutes ago LI's highest-paid CEOs ... LI bars adapt to less drinking ... Flag football on rise ... Out East: Jamesport Farm Brewery

Out East: Jamesport Farm Brewery ... Impacts to marine life from power cable? ... Road closures in Suffolk Credit: Newsday

Updated 51 minutes ago LI's highest-paid CEOs ... LI bars adapt to less drinking ... Flag football on rise ... Out East: Jamesport Farm Brewery

SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME