Holden LewisAssistant managing editor, Bankrate.comRates fell in the last week because of concerns about Italy's debt problems. If we don't get a debt deal done soon here in the United States, we probably will see a rise in Treasury yields and mortgage rates.
Barry HabibCEO, Mortgage Market Guide, Holmdel, N.J.Higher off of inflation fears.
John WalshPresident, Total Mortgage Services, Milford, Conn.Mortgage rates are likely headed higher over the next week. Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke's comments that the Federal Open Market Committee is considering providing additional stimulus if economic conditions deteriorate is a boon to stocks. When stocks do well, mortgage-backed securities usually suffer. Moreover, the likelihood that a small, temporary "kick-the-can" measure will be adopted related to the debt ceiling and deficit issue will tend to push rates higher.