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Mortgage applications rise 0.8% as 30-year rate hits 6.79%

The Mortgage Bankers Association data also showed the refinance index fell 1% and the ARM share rose to 8%, its highest level in five weeks.

Reported · Written up by our desk · Mortgages

Mortgage applications increased 0.8% in the week ending August 28, 2026, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association’s weekly applications survey published by HousingWire. The rise came as the average contract interest rate for 30-year conforming loans climbed to 6.79%, up from 6.78% the prior week.

Within the overall total, the seasonally adjusted purchase index increased 2% from the previous week, while the refinance index declined 1%. HousingWire also reported that refinancing activity measured by the refinance share fell to 41.8% of total applications from 42.0% the week before.

Borrowing mix shifted toward adjustable-rate mortgages, with the ARM share rising to 8%, its highest level in five weeks. HousingWire said rates reached their highest levels in four weeks, with concerns about inflation and widening deficits pushing yields higher globally.

By government program share, the FHA portion of applications decreased to 15.9% from 16.2%, while the VA share increased to 13.6% from 12.8%. HousingWire reported the USDA share stayed flat at 0.5%, and the 5/1 ARM rate decreased to 5.94% from 5.98%.

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