U.S. mortgage rates eased slightly this week as markets absorbed the Federal Reserve’s signal that it is in no rush to cut rates further. Freddie Mac said the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage fell by two basis points to 6.78%, a modest decline that still leaves borrowing costs elevated for homebuyers.

The latest move reflects a cautious policy backdrop. After a series of rate adjustments and ongoing inflation concerns, Fed officials have indicated they want more evidence before taking additional steps. That stance has kept pressure on housing affordability, even as rates have drifted down from recent peaks.

For prospective buyers, the small drop offers only limited relief. Monthly payments remain high compared with the pre-tightening period, and many households continue to face a difficult market marked by limited inventory and stretched budgets.

Analysts say mortgage rates are likely to remain sensitive to inflation data, labor market trends and the Fed’s next signals. Until the central bank shows a clearer path toward additional easing, housing costs may stay relatively expensive for much of the market.