The Labor Department reports new applications for unemployment benefits rose by 2000 to a seasonally adjusted 244,000 the week ended June 24. That matched expectations. New applications have been under 300,000 for 121 straight weeks. Continuing claims rose by 6,000 to 1,948,000 the week ended June 17. Continuing claims have been under 2 million for the 11th straight week. The unemployment rate is 4.3%.
Freddie Mac reports mortgage rates have hit a low for 2017. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.88% this week, down from last week’s 3.90%. A year ago it was 3.48%. The 15-year fixed averaged 3.17% unchanged from last week. A year ago it was 2.78%.
Serving the West Side first, I am Bill Roller of BR Capital for 1360 KUIK.
