The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. rose this week to its highest level since early February, further pushing up borrowing costs for homebuyers.

The rate rose to 6.89% from 6.86% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, it averaged 7.03%.

Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages also rose. The average rate ticked up to 6.03% from 6.01% last week. It was 6.36% a year ago, Freddie Mac said.

Bond yields, which influence mortgage rates, have been trending higher, reflecting uncertainty over ever-changing tariffs policy and worry about exploding federal debt.

The average rate on a 30-year mortgage has remained relatively close to its high this year of just above 7%, set in mid-January. The low point was 6.62%. — Associated Press