Potential homebuyers may be able to save money with a little-known financing option, but they still need to watch their credit.

Renewed concerns over tariffs and the broader economy drove treasury yields higher last week, and mortgage rates followed. As a result, total mortgage application volume dropped 10% last week compared with the previous week, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association's seasonally adjusted index.

Mortgage applications dropped 10.0% amid rising interest rates and post-holiday adjustments.   Refinance activity declined 7%, while purchase app

For the second consecutive week mortgage rates moved higher, as the likelihood of the Federal Reserve acting diminished after the Consumer Price Index report.

The average rate on 30-year fixed home loans increased to 6.72% for the week ending July 10, up from 6.67% last week.

The market currently projects an interest rate cut in the fall, though two Fed officials floated the possibility of a rate cut this month. Fed Chair Powell has reaffirmed a "wait and see" posture, with concerns over the inflationary impact of tariffs.

Homeownership is often seen as a cornerstone of the American Dream. But for some who bought in recent years, it’s become a costly source of stress.

But in 2023 the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage was 6.8%, its highest in 22 years. Last year it was only slightly lower. And so the tricks of 40 years ago are back. Mr Sabic is among a small but growing band of homebuyers who have taken over their seller’s mortgage.