Your trusted source for current mortgage rates and expert guidance
Your trusted source for current mortgage rates and expert guidance
Breaking mortgage news, rate updates, and market analysis affecting your home financing decisions. Stay ahead of market movements with expert commentary on Federal Reserve actions, housing market trends, and mortgage rate fluctuations.
Today's market-moving news and rate changes
Federal Reserve officials hint at possible interest rate reductions by summer if inflation data continues showing improvement. Mortgage markets already pricing in expected cuts.
Read MoreAverage mortgage rates remain steady as markets await clearer inflation signals. Lenders report strong application activity despite elevated rates.
View Current RatesExisting home sales exceeded expectations as buyers adjust to higher rate environment. Inventory levels beginning to improve in key markets.
Read AnalysisKey stories shaping the mortgage landscape
Core PCE price index rose 2.8% annually in December, down from November's 2.9% reading and approaching the Federal Reserve's 2% target. Mortgage markets responded positively, with 30-year rates dipping 5 basis points on the news.
MBA reports significant increase in both purchase and refinance applications as borrowers lock in rates ahead of potential Fed cuts. Refinance activity jumped 12% while purchase applications rose 5%.
Leading mortgage lender launches expanded down payment assistance options and reduced PMI requirements for qualified first-time homebuyers, aiming to improve affordability in challenging market.
New home construction jumped 7.5% as builders respond to persistent housing demand. Single-family starts led the gains, potentially easing inventory shortages in coming months.
December FOMC minutes show officials divided on when to begin cutting rates, with some advocating patience and others favoring earlier action. Mortgage markets volatile following release.
What industry leaders are saying about mortgage rates
Chief Economist, National Mortgage Association
"We expect mortgage rates to gradually decline through 2026 as inflation moderates. Buyers shouldn't wait for perfect rates but should lock when they find competitive pricing. The bottom may come faster than many anticipate."
Latest Analysis: January 24, 2026
Senior Rate Analyst, Housing Finance Institute
"The spread between Fed funds and mortgage rates remains elevated. As this normalizes, we could see 30-year rates drop 50-75 basis points even without dramatic Fed action. Smart borrowers are getting pre-approved now."
Latest Analysis: January 23, 2026
Government actions affecting mortgage rates and lending
Federal Housing Finance Agency raises maximum conforming loan limits to $766,550 for most areas and $1,149,825 in high-cost markets. The 5.2% increase reflects home price growth and expands access to lower-rate conventional financing.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau updates rules regarding loss mitigation and borrower communication during servicing transfers. New requirements take effect July 1, 2026, providing additional borrower protections.
Department of Veterans Affairs removes all loan amount limits for VA loans, expanding zero-down options for eligible veterans and service members. Lenders still must approve borrowers based on credit and income.
Mortgage markets move fast. Get the latest rate updates and expert analysis delivered to your inbox. Never miss an opportunity to lock a great rate.