In a forecast for next year, Freddie Mac says it thinks mortgage rates will remain low, but it sees multifamily rather than single-family home buildings as the overall growth area for mortgage demand.

"The rental market is likely to lead growth in the lending industry, though parts of the country will also benefit from increased activity in the single-family home market," The Wall Street Journal reported.

The forecast highlighted:

• Economic growth will likely strengthen to about 2.5 percent in 2012.
• The U.S. unemployment rate will decline but likely remain above 8 percent.
• Mortgage rates will likely remain very low, at least through mid-2012.
• Housing activity will be better in 2012, but not robust.
• Expect less single-family originations but more multifamily lending in 2012.