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March 20, 2026
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March 20, 2026

Rates Jumped Above 6.5%. Here’s What It Means.

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Mortgage rates have moved above 6.5% as global uncertainty and rising oil prices continue to impact the market.

When oil prices rise, it increases the cost of goods and services across the economy. That can lead to higher inflation, which puts pressure on interest rates.

Right now, uncertainty is driving the market. And when uncertainty rises, many buyers choose to wait.

But that creates opportunity.

With fewer buyers in the market, competition drops. That means fewer bidding wars, more negotiating power, and a better chance to secure seller concessions.

Even with rates above 6.5%, they are still below where they were a year ago and remain under 7%.

What matters most is how you respond.

Buyers who stay informed and take action during times like this are often in a stronger position. When the market stabilizes, more buyers return, and competition increases.

You can adjust your rate later if conditions improve. What you cannot change is the price you pay for the home.

That is why many smart buyers choose to act while others hesitate.

Video Transcript for
Rates Jumped Above 6.5%. Here’s What It Means.
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Featuring:
Bill Gaylord
, NMLS
680603
|
Gaylord-Hansen Team at CrossCountry Mortgage

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.

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