 in a sign that high interest rates may be taking a toll on the economy. Still, the reports show that the January to March slowdown was caused mainly by two factors, a surge in imports and a drop in business inventory. Correspondent Jeremy House, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage eased again this week, extending the welcome trend for prospective homebuyers facing those record high home prices. The rate fell to 6.86% from 6.87% last week, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac.