The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. eased again this week, modest relief for prospective home shoppers during a busy time for the housing market.

The rate fell to 6.76% from 6.81% last week and 6.83% the week before, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 7.22%.

Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages also fell. The average rate dropped to 5.92% from 5.94% last week. It’s down from 6.47% a year ago, Freddie Mac said.

After climbing to just above 7% in mid- January, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage has remained above 6.62%, where it was just three weeks ago. It then spiked above 6.8% the next two weeks. — Associated Press