Homebuyer Optimism Increases in July

Housing sentiment inched up as Fannie Mae’s index rose to 71.8. Job loss fears fell, home price and mortgage rate outlooks improved, but buying conditions declined.

Mortgage Rates at Lowest Level in Months

Rates on 30-year mortgages fell to 6.63%, the lowest since April, from 6.72% last week, while 15-year rates dropped to 5.75% from 5.85%.

Hurricane Forecasts Hold Steady

Experts still expect a busier-than-usual hurricane season, though they're less certain about the outlook. Warm ocean waters could lead to more storms ahead.

New Construction Price Premium Hits All-Time Low

Newly built homes are more plentiful nationwide and a better value on a per-square foot basis, particularly in the South, Realtor.com said.