New numbers released by Freddie Mac recently indicate it's looking like good news in terms of mortgage rates for the new year. Averages of fixed year mortgage rates have fallen to a record low this week as the yield on the 10-year Treasury note fell below 2%. The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage rate is down to 3.91%, while the average on the 15-year fixed mortgage is down to 3.23%.

Despite the low rates, Americans are still having trouble taking advantage. Unemployment is still high, and many are having difficulty qualifying for loans. The Associated Press says new home sales in 2011 will likely be the worst year on record in the last 50 years.

In addition to the low mortgage rates, consumer sentiment indicates a more positive outlook when it comes to the housing market in 2012, so builders are hopeful that sales will improve this year.

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