Mortgage Rates Tick Up as Budget Battles Stir Market Jitters

Mortgage rates edged higher this week amid fresh economic uncertainty. A sweeping budget bill, fears of rising deficits, and chatter about privatizing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have investors on edge—and borrowing costs on the rise. What’s driving the shift, and what should homebuyers and sellers expect next week? Here’s what you need to know.