WASHINGTON » Average long-term U.S. mortgage rates rose this week yet remained below 4 percent for a 12th straight week.

Mortgage giant Freddie Mac said Thursday the average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage increased to 3.82 percent from 3.76 percent a week earlier. The rate on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages rose to 3.03 percent from 2.99 percent.

Despite the increase, rates remained well below last year’s levels, providing an inducement for potential homebuyers.

A year ago the average 30-year mortgage rate was 3.97 percent, while the rate for 15-year loans was 3.18 percent.

In recent days two influential members of the Federal Reserve’s policymaking body spoke in favor of postponing an increase in its key short-term interest rate. The Fed has been expected to raise the benchmark rate later this year for the first time in nine years.

To calculate average mortgage rates, Freddie Mac surveys lenders across the country at the beginning of each week. The average doesn’t include extra fees, known as points, which most borrowers must pay to get the lowest rates. One point equals 1 percent of the loan amount.

On The Move

» The City and County of Honolulu has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. This is the 17th year the City and County of Honolulu has received the award, which shows the commitment by the city and its Department of Budget and Fiscal Services to meet the highest standards of governmental budgeting.

» Destination Residences Hawai‘i has hired David Dreisch as general manager for Wailea Beach Villas. He is responsible for the resort’s facilities and maintaining the high level of luxury and service for which the resort is recognized. Dreisch has more than 15 years of experience, including serving as resort manager for Vail Cascade Resort in Vail, Colo.

Ship Ahoy!

Today’s ship arrivals and departures: