Mortgage applications saw healthy boost during sub-6% rate week

Buyers responded with enthusiasm to a dip in mortgage rates last week, but this week’s rate spikes and conflict in Iran could lead to a downturn in mortgage applications in weeks to come. Continue reading

Fed holds rates steady — but economists offer hope for housing

One economist said Wednesday that “homebuyers remain active at the start of 2026.” And another expert noted that “mortgage rates are nearly a full percentage point lower than they were a year ago.” Continue reading

Improving rates just drove a ‘big week’ for mortgages

The latest numbers from the Mortgage Bankers Association show that applications for loans increased last week. Rates for a 30-year fixed rate loan averaged 6.16 percent Continue reading

Homebuyer demand sags as mortgage rates stay range bound

Applications for purchase mortgages drops for a fifth consecutive week to the lowest level since October, as mortgage rates continue to hover above 6 percent. Continue reading

Fannie, Freddie regulator vows to protect consumers from rising credit report fees

FHFA Director Bill Pulte’s tweet dented Equifax, Experian and TransUnion shares as the MBA renewed calls to do away with tri-merge reporting. Continue reading

FHA builds record reserves against a gathering storm of delinquencies

With delinquencies and debt-to-income ratios on the rise, the Trump administration is lifting foreclosure restrictions and eyeing tighter underwriting requirements for borrowers with multiple risk factors. Continue reading

He’s been at the MBA and Fannie Mae. Here’s who he thinks has the better 2026 mortgage forecast

Economist Doug Duncan weighs in on the challenges facing economic forecasters today, cutbacks in economic reports produced by Fannie and Freddie, Fed independence, and more. Continue reading

Home sales could inch up even if growth stays sluggish next year

Home sales should break through the 5 million mark next year as more inventory gradually comes on the market and home prices decline, economists at the Mortgage Bankers Association predict. Continue reading

Mortgage demand dips as Fed signals cautious approach to rates

Homebuyer demand is still stronger than a year ago, but seasonal shifts have pushed the mix of business toward refinancing, which accounted for 59% of loan applications last week. Continue reading

Inventory tightens up as new listings tank: Redfin

As Americans become immersed in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and buyer demand softens, homesellers are pulling back from the housing market. Continue reading