The Weekly Highlight 10.19.26
Home Court Insight Mortgage rates. Housing. Financing Strategies.
The Week of Oct 19th, 2026 - A quick breakdown of what's happening in mortgage and real estate — and what it could mean for buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals.
Here's what caught my attention this week!
Mortgage Rate Update
Finally Some Stability! More Info below...
Housing Market
More Homes, Fewer Buyers! More info below...
Financing Strategy
Create Opportunities! More info below...
Mortgage Rate Update
*Currently the National Average for 30yr fixed mortgage rates = 7.47%
Mortgage Rates Finally Hit the Brakes After seven consecutive weeks of increases, the national average 30-year fixed mortgage rate held steady and actually came down just a tad.
While the pause is welcome news, rates remain significantly higher than earlier this year. Higher oil prices, inflation concerns, and rising bond yields have contributed to the pressure on mortgage rates. However, the recent pullback in the 10-year Treasury yield offers some encouragement.
The takeaway? Stable is good but it doesn't mean potential increases are over or lower rates are coming. Buyers should focus on a comfortable payment and a financing strategy that works today, while remaining prepared to take advantage of refinancing opportunities if conditions improve.
**Chart below-10yr US Treasury for the last few months. Mortgage Rates typically follow the 10yr UST, so as it goes up or down, usually mortgage rates do as well.(Red=good/lower, Green=bad/higher)
Housing Market Inventory
Sales Improve Slightly, but Buyers Remain Cautious
September existing-home sales increased 1.5% from August, but remained 2.2% below last year. Meanwhile, inventory grew to 1.6 million homes, representing a 4.8-month supply.
Here's where things get interesting: While closed sales improved slightly, pending home sales dropped 4% in September, suggesting higher mortgage rates are continuing to slow new buyer activity.
More homes are available, properties are taking longer to sell, and nearly one in five sellers reduced their asking prices last month.
What does this mean? Buyers may have more negotiating opportunities, including price reductions, closing cost assistance, and rate buydowns. For sellers, pricing correctly and considering financing incentives could make a meaningful difference in attracting qualified buyers.
Every market — and every property — is different. The right strategy matters more than ever.
Financing Strategy
Don't Just Focus on Price. Focus on the Payment and Terms
With affordability still challenging, buyers and sellers should be looking beyond the asking price.
Seller concessions can potentially help cover closing costs, reduce the buyer's interest rate through temporary or permanent buydowns, or simply help preserve cash after closing.
For Realtors, understanding these options before negotiating an offer can help create solutions that benefit both sides of the transaction.
The goal isn't just to get a contract signed. It's to put together the right game plan that helps everyone get to the closing table.
Let's Build a Winning Game Plan
Opportunities Exist in Every Market!
Whether you're buying, selling, or helping clients navigate today's market, having the right financing strategy can make all the difference.
Let's WIN Together!
Have a Scenario? Let's Build a Game Plan.
Every buyer, seller and situation is different. If you're wondering how today's rates, seller concessions or financing strategies could work for you or one of your clients, let's run the numbers and build a game plan.
Questions are always welcome.
More About JT Greene
I am licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina, and my team covers 46 states nationwide. Whether you're moving around the corner or across the country, I've got your back with custom mortgage planning and unbeatable service.
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