WASHINGTON >> The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage hovered near historic lows this week, making home-buying and refinancing more attractive to those who can qualify.

Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac says the rate on the 30-year loan increased to 3.92 percent. That’s up from 3.88 percent the previous week. The rate touched 3.87 percent four weeks ago, the lowest since long-term mortgages began in the 1950s.

The average on the 15-year fixed mortgage rose to 3.16 percent, up from a record low of 3.13 percent last week.

Rates on the 30-year loan have been below 4 percent for three months. Low rates are among the positive signs emerging that suggest this year could mark a turnaround for the depressed housing market. Still, many people are unable to qualify for the rates