Video
November 14, 2025
Airs live on YouTube
November 14, 2025
Why 2026 Could Look Very Different From Today
Market Update
Coming Soon
Follow us on YouTube to watch live!
Mortgage rates moved up to 6.38% this week and the market still feels slow, but several trends are forming that could make 2026 look very different from what you are experiencing today. Buyer hesitation remains high, sellers are offering closing cost credits and price reductions, and delayed economic data has added uncertainty. Even so, the conditions shaping next year are already changing in ways that buyers should be watching.
For first time buyers, there is an important insight to consider. About 50% of mortgage applications come from first time buyers, yet less than 25% of home sales involve one. This means many people want to buy but are waiting for conditions to feel more affordable or more predictable. When mortgage rates move into the high fives, many of these buyers are expected to return.
Next year could also bring helpful financial changes. A softer job market and easing inflation may contribute to lower mortgage rates. Many households will receive larger tax refunds due to changes affecting tips, overtime, and Social Security. Once people adjust their withholdings, some may see higher take-home pay.
Inventory is still tight, which is why home values have remained stable even in a slower market. The incentives that sellers offer today may not look the same once more buyers come back.
If you are thinking about buying, this quieter period can be a good time to prepare. Getting pre-approved, reviewing different payment scenarios, and understanding your numbers can help you move quickly when the market looks different in 2026.
Featuring:
The information contained is the viewpoint of the presenter(s). Individuals should consult their own financial representative.
Estimated Mortgage Payment is for exemplary purposes only. Contact a licensed loan officer for exact numbers and APR. Additional rates and terms may apply and are subject to change without notice. Loan scenario assumes a purchase price of Zillow's list price and a 10% down payment. Points and fees not included. Property tax, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and HOA fees are approximate and may vary. Other fees may apply. Product displayed is a conventional 30-year fixed rate mortgage using the current average rate as shown on Mortgage News Daily (mortgagenewsdaily.com).
Estimated Qualifying Income assumes a homebuyer has a FICO score above 740, no other credit debt, and a debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of 43%.
For exact numbers and APR or to run a loan scenario based on your own credit and income, contact our office at (858) 259-8700.
Rate Source: Mortgage News Daily. Rates displayed are approximate, subject to change, and do not necessarily reflect rates available to you. MND’s methods involve an objective component based on lenders' raw prices as well as a subjective impression from their network of originators. For more information about how these rates are calculated, visit www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/mortgage-rates/about.
Mortgage News Daily (MND) is a trademark of Brown House Media, Inc. Zillow is a trademark of Zillow, Inc. CrossCountry Mortgage has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Brown House Media, Inc. or Zillow, Inc.
Equal Housing Opportunity. All loans subject to underwriting approval. Certain restrictions apply. Call (858) 259-8700 for details. All borrowers must meet minimum credit score, loan-to-value, debt-to-income, and other requirements to qualify for any mortgage program. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC is an FHA Approved Lending Institution and is not acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the federal government. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC is not affiliated with or acting on behalf of or at the direction of the Veteran Affairs Office or any government agency. Certificate of Eligibility required for VA loans. By refinancing, the existing loan total finance charges may be higher over the life of the loan.
