07/16/2026
One of the most asked questions in real estate right now is:
Where mortgage rates stand mid-year
Back in January, everyone had the same question: What will happen to mortgage rates this year? Hereās where they currently stand.
While mortgage rates continue to fluctuate, average rates on a 30-year mortgage dipped below 6% for the first time in 3.5 years. The reduction was short-lived as rates climbed back up into the mid-6% range, but it reminded us just how quickly the market can change.
The biggest takeaway for homebuyers from these U.S. housing market trends in 2026? Waiting for the perfect mortgage rate isnāt always easy. Instead, the best course of action is to focus on the factors within your control, such as:
Your budget
Down payment amount
Loan options
Long-term homeownership goals
When youāre thinking about buying a home, mortgage rates are only a part of the story. Thereās also home prices, inventory levels and local market trends to consider as youāre mapping out your next steps.
Housing inventory is improving
Next in our financial checkup, letās evaluate inventory. In 2026, more and more homes have been hitting the market, giving homebuyers a wider pool of options. In May, NAR reported a 3.3% increase in unsold inventory and 3.2% increase in existing home sales.
Higher inventory means less competition, more time to make a decision and better negotiation leverage. In some areas, sellers are even becoming more flexible, offering concessions or other incentives to lock in a sale.
This is great news for homebuyers. The market is set up for them to find the right property at the right price in the second half of the year. After a persistent selling market with low inventory, 2026 is looking to be one of the most balanced markets in the past few years.
Home prices continue to show resilience
In 2026, home prices remained relatively stable in many markets. Price growth has cooled compared to the appreciation seen in recent years, and values are holding steady. For homeowners, this is amazing news ā higher home values help retain the equity youāve built over time.
For buyers, itās a reminder that waiting for a nationwide price reduction may not be the best strategy. Instead, focusing on affordability, financing options and long-term goals may be better than trying to time the market.
Want to stay a few steps ahead? Get pre-approved to find the perfect loan so youāre ready to take action when the right opportunity comes your way.
What todayās market means for you
Housing markets vary by location, but overall, the first half of 2026 has brought encouraging signs for both homebuyers and owners. Buyers have more inventory to choose from, better negotiation leverage and less competition than in recent years. On the other hand, homeowners continue to build and retain equity as home values hold strong.
Consider an annual mortgage review
Life changes, the market shifts and your financial needs evolve. So why should your mortgage stay the same?
Thatās where an annual mortgage review comes in. Our loan experts can help you uncover all your options, including leveraging home equity or prepping for a future purchase. Ready for a financial checkup and mortgage review? Get in touch with us to ensure you're making the most of one of your greatest financial assets: your home
Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Refinancing your mortgage may increase costs over the term of your loan. Restrictions may apply.
All information provided in this publication is for informational and educational purposes only, and in no way is any of the content contained herein to be construed as financial, investment, or legal advice or instruction. Guaranteed Rate Affinity does not guarantee the quality, accuracy, completeness or timelines of the information in this publication. While efforts are made to verify the information provided, the information should not be assumed to be error-free. Some information in the publication may have been provided by third parties and has not necessarily been verified by Guaranteed Rate Affinity. Guaranteed Rate Affinity its affiliates and subsidiaries do not assume any liability for the information contained herein, be it direct, indirect, consequential, special, or exemplary, or other damages whatsoever and howsoever caused, arising out of or in connection with the use of this publication or in reliance on the information, including any personal or pecuniary loss, whether the action is in contract, tort (including negligence) or other tortious action.
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By Alex Ceko on Jul 9, 2026
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