Mortgage rates have climbed to their highest level in two months, reaching an average of 6.83% for a 30-year mortgage. This significant increase is being attributed to ongoing trade tariffs, which have created volatility in the markets and led homebuyers to turn to riskier loan options. Recent data indicates that mortgage applications have dropped by 8.5% as rising rates dent housing demand. Analysts are warning that further uncertainty could lead to even higher home prices, with homebuyers feeling the pressure to navigate a tumultuous lending environment.