Highlights
MBA's purchase index rose 1.1 percent in the Aug. 7 week for the third straight small gain in a row (levels not provided). The refinance index fell 7.2 percent reflecting a 21 basis point jump in the 30-year fixed rate, at 5.38 percent in the week.
Definition
The Mortgage Bankers' Association compiles various mortgage loan indexes. The purchase applications index measures applications at mortgage lenders. This is a leading indicator for single-family home sales and housing construction.
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