If you’ve been keeping an eye on the mortgage market lately, you’ve likely noticed some turbulence. As our trusted lender Brooks Kelly put it, “Rocky road has never been my favorite ice cream—and nor is this rocky road that mortgage bonds are living on.”
So What’s Happening?
Over the past few weeks, international tariff news has sent stock and bond markets into a frenzy. For mortgage rates, which are closely tied to bond pricing, this volatility has meant dramatic ups and downs—sometimes changing by the hour.
Just three weeks ago, borrowers were seeing the best rates in over six months. But thanks to abrupt changes in market sentiment (i.e., "Tariff today, no tariff tomorrow"), those gains disappeared nearly overnight. Add in surprise economic reports and sudden stock rallies, and it’s a recipe for the rollercoaster we’ve been riding.
Is Now a Bad Time to Buy?
Not at all. While these market fluctuations make headlines, Brooks encourages buyers to focus on affordability and timing that works for their life. Rates may go back down (and we’ll refinance when they do!), but the inventory is available now—and waiting may mean facing more competition later.
“Buy something you can afford now, and we’ll refinance it later,” says Brooks. “Simple to say—now let’s go do it!”
Chart Notes
🟢 Green = good for rates (as seen on the chart).
📈 The higher the candlesticks climb, the lower the mortgage rate tends to go.
📊 Want help understanding where rates are today?
Reach out to our lending partner, Brooks Kelly at The Mortgage Link, for updates, pre-approvals, and guidance on locking in the best rate possible.
