Mortgage closing fees are in the hot seat. Here's why feds are looking into them.
As home prices nationwide continue to climb, the federal government is looking into a recent spike in upfront costs associated with buying a house.
Mortgage Rates
Home prices reach $387,600 record high, putting a damper on spring
Continued demand and lack of inventory are driving up the prices of homes at a time when mortgage rates are also climbing.
Will mortgage rates fall in 2024? Here's what Freddie Mac predicts.
Demand for buying a home will remain strong in 2024 even though mortgage rates have been around 7% this year.
Cost of buying a home in America reaches a new high, Redfin says
The median mortgage payment jumped to a record $2,843 in April, up nearly 13% from a year ago, a new analysis finds.
Tips for buying a home
Mortgage rates soared to their highest level of the year this week, according to Mortgage News Daily. Holden Lewis, a home and mortgage reporter for NerdWallet, joins CBS News with tips on buying a home.
Inflation is sticking around. Here's what that means for your money.
Inflation is moving sideways, remaining above 3% for the first three months of 2024. Here's how that could impact your finances.
Jobs grow in February, unemployment rises
The U.S. economy added 275,000 jobs in February and the unemployment rate unexpectedly rose to 3.9% from 3.7%, according to data released Friday. CBS News business analyst Jill Schlesinger and Daniel Zhao, a lead economist and senior manager at Glassdoor, join CBS News with a look at the numbers.
Here's what's making it so hard to buy a home in the U.S. these days
Aspiring homebuyers face one of the toughest markets in years, with one analyst pointing to a "toxic brews" chilling sales.
Home prices, mortgage rates remain high
While inflation has shown signs of cooling, mortgage rates and home prices are still stubbornly high, making it challenging for many Americans to buy homes. Elise Preston reports.
Mortgage rates expected to fall slightly
Mortgage rates are expected to fall slightly this year, according to real estate experts looking at the data. Jessica Lautz, the deputy chief economist and vice president of research at the National Association of REALTORS, joins CBS News to discuss if homeowners should refinance their mortgages.
Here's when experts think the Fed could start cutting interest rates
After a hotter-than-expected inflation report on Tuesday, economists now believe the Fed could postpone its first rate cut. Here's what to know.
High rents leave many financially stretched
While rents have been easing for the past few months nationwide, prices are still up significantly compared to before the pandemic, largely due to inflation. Providence, Rhode Island, saw one of the highest rent increases in the U.S. last year, and according to researchers, you need a salary of close to $83,000 to afford a two-bedroom apartment there. Nancy Chen reports.
Why the Fed is holding interest rates steady
The Federal Reserve Board announced it will not change interest rates for now as it eyes how to lower inflation without running the risk of entering a recession. CBS News business analyst Jill Schlesinger looks at the Fed's decision and the upcoming cues to look out for in the economy.
Wall Street closes out week on record upswing
The big picture on Wall Street is that it's been a solid stretch for the American economy. But for those hoping to buy a home, pay rent, or afford groceries, it's not all quite as rosy.
Mortgage rates expected to fall in 2024
Some financial experts expect mortgage rates to decline gradually over the coming months. Mark Hamrick, a senior economic analyst for Bankrate, joins CBS News with the data behind this projection.
Nearly a third of Americans expect mortgage rates to fall in 2024
In a positive sign for the housing market, a growing number of consumers think mortgage rates are likely to decline this year.
Housing market outlook for 2024
Will mortgage rates drop and home prices finally fall in 2024? Chen Zhao, who leads the economics team at Redfin, shares some early predictions for the housing market in 2024.
Mortgage rates starting to slowly drop
Sky-high mortgage rates that scared off some potential home-buyers this year are slowly starting to drop. Rates are now at their lowest level since June after hitting a 23-year high in October. Greg McBride, chief financial analyst at Bankrate, joined CBS News to discuss how much lower rates might go.
Mortgage rate for a typical home loan falls to 6.8% — lowest since June
Mortgage rates are edging down from their highest level in 23 years as inflation around the U.S. continues to cool.
2023 was brutal for homebuyers. Here's what to expect in 2024.
Mortgage rates recently hit their highest levels in more than two decades, pricing many out of the market. Here's what to expect in 2024.
Here's how much you need to earn to afford a home in 97 U.S. cities
"Even places that historically have been affordable now need six figures," according to Redfin's chief economist.
Here's what to do if you get behind on your mortgage payment
Many homeowners are struggling to keep up with their mortgage payments amid rising costs and high inflation. Here's how to catch up.
Thinking of an adjustable-rate mortgage? Here are 3 questions to ask.
Deciding on an adjustable-rate mortgage boils down to how long you plan to own a property and if your income is stable.
What the Fed's rate decision this week could mean for mortgage rates
With mortgage rates topping 8%, some home buyers are hoping to see some relief with the Federal Reserve's next decision.
Home prices and rents have both soared. So is buying or renting the better deal?
Buying a home is now 52% more expensive than renting, a financial gap that is larger than during the 2006 housing bubble.
More than 800 missing, including 65 Americans, as Nepal flood deaths mount
Hundreds of people, including many Americans, are still missing along the Nepal-China border after deadly floods and mudflows likely triggered by a glacial collapse.
Live
Live Updates: Closing arguments begin in Lindsay Clancy's murder trial
Attorneys are presenting closing arguments in Lindsay Clancy's murder trial in Massachusetts after weeks of testimony.
Trump's oil and gas stock trades continued during Iran war, filings show
President Trump has accused oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil of "making too much money." He owns shares of both.
Live
Iran says Strait of Hormuz agreement with Oman puts ball back in U.S. court
As U.S. economic pressure bites, Iran touts a plan with Oman to get ships moving through the Strait of Hormuz and suggests the next move is Trump's.
During secretive trip, CIA chief warned Russia not to attack NATO
The purpose of CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Moscow this week was to warn Russia not to attack NATO member states, sources said, amid U.S. assessments that Russia could try to test NATO.
ICE arrests of people without criminal records hit record high, new data shows
The surge in arrests comes as the White House pushes ICE to hit a target of 2,000 per day.
ICE officer charged in Minneapolis shooting released from Texas jail
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent charged in a Minneapolis shooting during Operation Metro Surge has been released from a Texas jail, the Associated Press reports.
Exclusive
Grand jury: DeSantis administration "misappropriated" $10 million
A Florida grand jury found the DeSantis administration misappropriated $10 million in taxpayer money for political purposes.
Trial date set for alleged Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed
Khalid Sheikh Mohammed is accused of developing and directing the plot to crash hijacked airliners into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001.
U.S.
More U.S.
Missouri deputy AG found alive days after vanishing on Wyoming hike
Missouri Deputy Attorney General Shaun Mackelprang was found alive six days after he vanished in the remote Wyoming wilderness during a backcountry hike.
ICE officer charged in Minneapolis shooting released from Texas jail, AP reports
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent charged in a Minneapolis shooting during Operation Metro Surge has been released from a Texas jail, the Associated Press reports.
Trial date set for alleged Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed
Khalid Sheikh Mohammed is accused of developing and directing the plot to crash hijacked airliners into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001.
Small plane crash into water near remote Alaska town kills all 4 on board
A small plane carrying four people crashed into shallow waters next to a remote coastal town in Alaska on Wednesday, killing everyone on board, officials said.
NFL ends Pro Bowl after 75 years, will still honor roster at season's end
In a news release, the NFL said it plans to "elevate" Pro Bowl selections, with no replacement selections.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Trump's oil and gas stock trades continued during Iran war, filings show
President Trump has accused oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil of "making too much money." He owns shares of both.
Bill Gates issues stark warning about AI's impact on American jobs
In a nearly 6,000-word essay, Gates argues that artificial intelligence poses a mounting threat to U.S. workers.
See which U.S. states are most at risk from Canadian tariffs
Canadian officials said the tariffs set to be imposed on more than 800 U.S. imports are "strategic" and designed to target some states.
Boston Scientific says a cyberattack is disrupting its global operations
Medical device maker said it is working to assess the scope of the attack and business interruption.
Meta settles social media addiction suit for up to $17.1 billion
Meta agreed to pay up to $17.1 billion to settle allegations that its social media platforms are addictive.
Politics
More Politics
Trump's oil and gas stock trades continued during Iran war, filings show
President Trump has accused oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil of "making too much money." He owns shares of both.
During secretive trip, CIA chief warned Russia not to attack NATO
The purpose of CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Moscow this week was to warn Russia not to attack NATO member states, people familiar with the matter said, amid U.S. assessments that Russia could try to test NATO.
Pentagon upgrades awards of 3 Marines for actions after Abbey Gate attack
Five years after the attack in Afghanistan that killed 13 service members, the Pentagon upgraded the awards of three Marines who provided care in the wake of the blast.
ICE arrests of people without criminal records hit record high, new data shows
The surge in arrests comes as the White House pushes ICE to hit a target of 2,000 per day.
24 states sue to block new Postal Service rules for mail voting
The group of 24 states and the District of Columbia argues the Postal Service's new rule violates the Constitution and federal law.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
FDA approves new pancreatic cancer drug that could extend patients' lives
Patients taking the first-of-a-kind pill, called daraxonrasib, lived for a median of 13.2 months compared with 6.7 months for chemotherapy recipients, studies showed.
Secrets of the gut microbiome and how it impacts our long-term brain health
Dr. Laura Cox, an assistant professor at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, explains how our dietary patterns play a significant role in our gut and long-term brain health.
Pennsylvania records first 2 measles deaths in 35 years
Pennsylvania has recorded its first two deaths connected to measles in 35 years.
At least 1 in 4 ex-NFL players who died from 2016 to 2021 had CTE, study finds
The rate is much higher than is seen in the general population. CTE is a brain disease linked to repeated blows to the head.
Trump and Kennedy's health industry deals are at risk of vanishing
The agreements, covering issues like drug pricing, reducing the use of synthetic food dyes, and cutting back on insurance prior authorization rules, were announced with fanfare and touted as victories.
World
More World
Ancient gold treasures stolen from museum in "super-fast" raid
The treasure was discovered in 1963 by archaeologist Jose Maria Soler in a vessel sunk in a dried-out riverbed in Villena.
Suspect arrested for allegedly killing influencer on livestream
Cesar Gastelum was dressed as a food delivery worker and taking part in a social media challenge along with two friends when he was shot dead.
More than 800 missing, including 65 Americans, as Nepal flood deaths mount
Hundreds of people, including many Americans, are still missing along the Nepal-China border after deadly floods and mudflows likely triggered by a glacial collapse.
Yayoi Kusama, groundbreaking artist known for her signature polka dots, dies at 97
The paintings, sculptures and museum installations of Yayoi Kusama, one of Japan's most respected contemporary artists, were widely exhibited around the world.
During secretive trip, CIA chief warned Russia not to attack NATO
The purpose of CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Moscow this week was to warn Russia not to attack NATO member states, people familiar with the matter said, amid U.S. assessments that Russia could try to test NATO.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Entertainment
Extended interview: Alex Warren
Singer-songwriter Alex Warren sits down with Anthony Mason to talk about his sophomore album, WILDCHILD, the loss of his parents and how songs have been the soundtrack to his emotions.
"Rocky Horror" stars on film turning 10 (1985)
On Halloween 1985, Barry Bostwick and Richard O'Brien, stars of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," joined CBS News to mark 10 years since the cult classic's release. Tim Curry, who portrayed the film's antagonist, Dr. Frank-N-Furter, died Tuesday at the age of 80.
Dolly Parton's free book club for children
Late country superstar Dolly Parton helped millions of children develop a love of reading through her free Imagination Library program. Hardin Engelhardt, chief learning officer at Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh, North Carolina, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
Fans mourn Dolly Parton at Dollywood
Thousands buzzed into Dollywood on Wednesday, one day after Dolly Parton's family announced her death at 80 years old. Skyler Henry has more from the theme park she built.
Dollywood president remembers Dolly Parton
Tributes are pouring in from all over the country for legendary singer-songwriter Dolly Parton. CBS News correspondent Skyler Henry is at Dollywood, Parton's Tennessee theme park, with more.
Technology
More Technology
Technology
Unpacking Nvidia's latest earnings report
Artificial intelligence juggernaut Nvidia blew past Wall Street's expectations for its latest quarterly earnings report, more than doubling its profits and revenue. Wall Street Journal tech reporter Robbie Whelan joins CBS News to discuss.
Breaking down Meta's $17 billion settlement
Meta has agreed to pay $17 billion to settle claims that its platforms lead to addiction in kids and teens, but is not admitting any wrongdoing despite implementing new safeguards. CNET reporter Katelyn Chedraoui joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Anticipation builds for new iPhone launch
Anticipation is building for Apple's annual iPhone launch event in September, where the company is expected to reveal its first foldable phone. Questions remain though on whether consumers will be willing to pay big bucks for this device. CNET senior technology reporter Abrar Al-Heeti joins CBS News to discuss.
What Meta's settlement could mean for its future
Meta has reached a landmark legal settlement with dozens of states over claims that the social media giant intentionally designed addictive platforms that harmed the mental health of teenagers. CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady has the details.
Science
More Science
Invasive Joro spiders are "slowly spreading." Here's what to do if you see one.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park told visitors Tuesday that invasive Joro spiders "may be hanging in a web near you."
A summer of extremes: Weathering a hotter world
July was the hottest month ever in the Lower 48 States – another escalation of our world into a hotter, more dangerous planet, where extreme weather events – such as heat waves, wildfires and hurricanes – will become more common and more extreme.
A summer of extremes: Weathering a hotter world
July was the hottest month ever in the Lower 48 States, breaking a record last set during the Dust Bowl – just another step in the escalation of our world into a hotter, more dangerous planet. Correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti talks with climate journalist Jeff Goodell and atmospheric scientist Maria Molina about how changes in Earth's climate are increasing the likelihood that extreme weather events – such as heat waves, wildfires and hurricanes – will become more common and more extreme.
Views of the total solar eclipse in Europe
A total solar eclipse was visible in parts of Europe for the first time since 1912. Rob Marciano reports.
Europe sees total solar eclipse
A total solar eclipse turned day into night across a slice of Europe and North America on Wednesday, and put millions in unique contact with the heavens above. Meteorologist Rob Marciano reports from Spain.
Crime
More Crime
Ancient gold treasures stolen from museum in "super-fast" raid
The treasure was discovered in 1963 by archaeologist Jose Maria Soler in a vessel sunk in a dried-out riverbed in Villena.
ICE officer charged in Minneapolis shooting released from Texas jail, AP reports
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent charged in a Minneapolis shooting during Operation Metro Surge has been released from a Texas jail, the Associated Press reports.
Crucial day in Lindsay Clancy's murder trial
The defense and prosecution in the trial against Lindsay Clancy will give their closing arguments today. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul has more on what to expect.
Suspect arrested for allegedly killing influencer on livestream
Cesar Gastelum was dressed as a food delivery worker and taking part in a social media challenge along with two friends when he was shot dead.
Mom breaks bus window to pull out her child
A mother was arrested for vandalism in California after smashing a school bus window to haul out her own child. Carter Evans has the story.
Space
More Space
First on CBS
Trump to honor Artemis II crew with nation's top space medal
President Trump plans to award the Congressional Space Medal of Honor to the crew of NASA's Artemis II mission in a ceremony Aug. 28.
NASA's Swift telescope will plunge toward Earth after rescue mission called off
The mission to save NASA's sinking space telescope has been called off, dooming the telescope to a fiery reentry later this year.
NASA images show 60-foot-wide crater on moon after SpaceX rocket booster crash
A NASA spacecraft circling the moon is providing the sharpest views yet of the crater carved by a crashing SpaceX rocket.
New space object called "black hole star" discovered by astronomers
The newly discovered object looks like a star the size of our solar system, but produces 100 billion times more energy than any star.
Stunning photos show total solar eclipse over Europe
The only total solar eclipse of 2026 crossed the Northern Hemisphere Wednesday, with a path of totality across parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. See photos and video from the best viewing locations.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Dolly Parton: An extraordinary life in pictures
Dolly Parton, the country music legend who became a feminist icon, has died at the age of 80. Here is a look back at her life in pictures.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Investigating the death of designer Sylvie Cachay
Sylvie Cachay was found dead in an overflowing bathtub at the exclusive Soho House in New York City on Dec. 9, 2010. A water leak at the hotel gave away a timeline that may have revealed her killer.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Heat waves hinder wildfire efforts
Record-breaking heat waves in the western U.S. have halted wildfire efforts. Meanwhile, heat-related deaths have ramped up in Arizona. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Search ramps up for Nepal flood survivors
Hundreds of people are still missing after floods and mudslides caused by a glacial collapse wiped out towns on the Nepal-China border. At least 65 Americans are listed among the missing, authorities said. Anna Coren reports.
Eye Opener: Search for survivors in Nepal
Rescuers are searching for survivors in Nepal after catastrophic flooding and mudslides swept through. All that and all that matters in today's Eye Opener.
New details in Ratcliffe's trip to Russia
CIA Director John Ratcliffe met with Russian intelligence officials during an unusually visible visit to Moscow. CBS News' Holly Williams has more details.
Trump insists U.S. is winning Iran war
President Trump repeated his claim that the Strait of Hormuz is open and that the U.S. is winning the war against Iran. CBS News' Aaron Navarro has the latest.