Which of the following can influence mortgage interest rates?

The ability of credit history to influence mortgage interest rates is rooted in the way lenders assess risk. A borrower's credit history provides a detailed account of their past financial behavior, including payment history, outstanding debts, and overall credit score. A strong credit history indicates that the borrower is reliable and likely to make timely payments, leading lenders to offer lower interest rates as a reward for lower risk.

Conversely, a poor credit history suggests higher risk, which can lead lenders to charge higher interest rates to compensate for the potential for default. This correlation between credit history and interest rates is a fundamental concept in personal finance, as it highlights how financial responsibility can directly affect borrowing costs.

In contrast, factors like a borrower's age, education level, or employment history may have some indirect influence on the ability to secure a mortgage, but they are not direct determinants of the interest rates offered. Lenders primarily focus on the creditworthiness of the borrower, which is why credit history is a key factor in determining mortgage interest rates.