The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.49% from 6.47% this week, while 15-year rates climbed to 5.84%, Freddie Mac reported. Rates remain below year-ago levels as easing oil prices help cool bond market pressure.

A dispute over a late escrow deposit centered on one missing contract detail: the seller never named the escrow agent. This case shows how leaving an escrow agent listed as ?TBD? can turn a simple deadline issue into years of litigation and attorney fees.

Borrowers with fair credit scores pay up to $192 more per month than those with excellent credit, a difference that compounds to $69,120 over the life of a 30-year loan.