When the Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate by half a percentage point in September, it wasn't a particularly surprising move. At that point, the Fed was expected to make its first rate cut of the year in response to cooling inflation.

The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter of a percent as inflation begins the path to stabilization.

Earlier on Thursday, mortgage rates rose again for the sixth consecutive week, hitting a four-month high of 6.79%, according to Freddie Mac. The Fed's latest rate cut, which was universally expected and thus fully priced in to bond markets, is unlikely to bring relief to mortgage rates in the near term.

The Federal Reserve delivered a 0.25% interest rate cut last week. But prospective homebuyers wishing for lower mortgage rates are likely to be disappointed. While the central bank influences home loan rates,

The Fed has officially cut interest rates twice this year. But read on to see whether you should run out to sign a mortgage or not.