29
Jun
By Mike Pfefferman
Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 29th, 2026

The latest Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation, has been released. The report indicates that inflation remains elevated across most sectors, although the overall reading came in slightly below expectations.

However, this encouraging development has been tempered by a decline in consumer sentiment, which has fallen for the fourth consecutive month. Much of the pessimism has been attributed to concerns surrounding the conflict in Iran and rising fuel costs.

Despite inflation coming in below forecasts, some members of the Federal Reserve have continued to discuss the possibility of raising interest rates further in an effort to keep inflation under control.

PCE Index
The core personal consumption expenditures price index showed a 3.4% annual rate after rising 0.3% for the month. The core annual reading was the highest since October 2023. The Fed’s primary inflation gauge also showed an annual rate of 4.1%, the highest since April 2023.

Consumer Sentinment
Consumer sentiment has tumbled to a fresh record low in May as fears of higher prices grow due to the U.S.-Iran war and elevated oil prices, the University of Michigan’s Surveys of Consumers said Friday.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index

  • 15-Year FRM rates saw an increase of 0.03%, bringing the current rate to 5.84%.
  • 30-Year FRM rates saw an increase of 0.02%, bringing the current rate to 6.49%.

MND Rate Index

  • 30-Year FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.08%, with current rate at 6.07%.
  • 30-Year VA rates saw a decrease of -0.08%, with current rate at 6.09%.

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 215,000 compared to the expected claims of 223,000. The previous week landed at 227,000.

What’s Ahead
Key releases to watch next week include the U.S. Employment Report, U.S. wage data, and the Consumer Confidence report.

24
Jun
By Mike Pfefferman
Home Buyer Tips

Why Waiting for Lower Rates Could Cost More Than You Think

Many prospective homebuyers spend months waiting for mortgage rates to fall before making a move. While securing a favorable interest rate is important, focusing exclusively on rates can sometimes cause buyers to overlook other factors that affect the overall cost of homeownership. In some situations, waiting for lower rates may actually end up costing more than moving forward today.

Home Prices Do Not Always Wait
Mortgage rates and home prices do not necessarily move in the same direction. In many markets, home values continue to rise even when buyers are waiting for rates to improve. If prices increase while you remain on the sidelines, the additional purchase cost may outweigh any savings from a lower interest rate.

Competition Can Increase When Rates Drop
Lower rates often bring more buyers into the market. Increased demand can lead to multiple offer situations, bidding wars, and reduced negotiating power. Buyers who wait for rates to fall may find themselves competing against a larger pool of purchasers for the same inventory.

Monthly Payments Are Only One Piece of the Puzzle
While rates influence monthly mortgage payments, they are not the only factor that matters. Purchase price, down payment, taxes, insurance, and future appreciation all play a role in the long-term financial picture. Evaluating only one component may provide an incomplete view of the opportunity.

Refinancing May Be an Option Later
Many buyers overlook the possibility of refinancing if rates decline in the future. Purchasing a home now allows buyers to begin building equity and enjoying the benefits of ownership. If market conditions improve later, refinancing could potentially lower the interest rate without requiring the buyer to postpone their home purchase.

Every Market Is Different
There is no universal answer to whether waiting makes sense. Local inventory levels, home price trends, and personal financial goals all influence the decision. Working with a mortgage professional can help buyers evaluate their unique situation rather than relying on headlines or market predictions alone.

Focus on Your Readiness
The best time to buy is often when you are financially prepared and have found a home that meets your needs. While interest rates are important, they should be viewed as one piece of a larger decision. Focusing on overall affordability and long-term goals can help buyers make confident choices.

22
Jun
By Mike Pfefferman
Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 22nd, 2026

The week was relatively light following the release of the prior inflation data and the FOMC rate decision. The Federal Reserve decided to keep its overnight borrowing rate unchanged and has indicated no plans to make changes in the near term.

Many members of the Federal Reserve Board continue to watch economic conditions closely, as inflation remains elevated across many sectors and could warrant further policy action if price pressures persist.

FOMC Rate Decision
The Federal Open Market Committee voted unanimously to keep its benchmark overnight borrowing rate anchored in a range of 3.5%-3.75%. The federal funds rate has held there since the central bank lowered rates by three-quarters of a percentage point in the latter part of 2025. 

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index

  • 15-Year FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.04%, bringing the current rate to 5.81%.
  • 30-Year FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.05%, bringing the current rate to 6.47%.

MND Rate Index

  • 30-Year FHA rates saw an increase of 0.03%, with current rate at 6.15%.
  • 30-Year VA rates saw an increase of 0.03%, with current rate at 6.17%.

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 226,000 compared to the expected claims of 225,000. The previous week landed at 230,000.

What’s Ahead
PCE Index inflation data, personal income and spending, and consumer sentiment are headlining next week’s release data.