When jobs come back, analysts say, so does the economy. That should push mortgage rates higher.

If you have plans to buy a home in 2012, the best time to buy may be now. Today's mortgage rates are low and so are the home prices -- a combination that's unlikely to last.

Economists believe the strength of the 2012 housing market will be closely tied to jobs. If they're right, the housing market is ripe for a boost.

It's a risky time to be without a locked mortgage rate -- especially with the pending release of January's Non-Farm Payrolls report.

Consumer spending continues to rise nationwide, fueled by jobs growth and a rosier outlook for the U.S. economy. Unfortunately for mortgage rate shoppers, it may also lead to higher mortgage rates later this week.

Starting soon, nearly all home buyers and refinancing households nationwide will pay higher mortgage loan fees. Congress has made it law.

If you're floating a mortgage rate, or have yet to lock one in, today may be a good day to call your loan officer. Friday morning, the government releases its Non-Farm Payrolls report at 8:30 AM ET.

As the new year begins, there are no shortage of stories telling us what to expect in 2012.

At 8:30 AM ET Friday, the government's Bureau of Labor Statistics will release its November Non-Farm Payrolls report. Have you been floating a mortgage rate? It may be time to lock.

Within the next 48 hours, mortgage rates may get bouncy. The Federal Open Market Committee will adjourn from a 2-day meeting and October's Non-Farm Payrolls report is due for release. Of the two market movers, it's the Non-Farm Payrolls report that may cause the most damage.

The American Consumer is alive and well, it seems. Retail Sales are up 14 months in a row.

Mortgage rates are prepped to make big moves in the next 36 hours. Is it time for you to call in your rate lock?