09/17/2026
🏡 The Fed raised rates… Should you wait to buy?
Let's dig into this a bit together...
What the Fed Did:
The FOMC voted 12-0 to raise the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to a new target range of 2.75%-4.00% due to elevated inflation (at 3.4%, well above their 2% target), a spike in oil prices (energy costs are up, feeding through to broader prices) and a steady labor market (which gives room to prioritize fighting inflation.) Effective today, it's the first rate hike since July 2023, after two years of holds and cuts, and 16/18 FOMC officials are projecting at least one more hike before year end.
How that Impacts Real Estate:
One of the biggest misconceptions in real estate is that a Fed rate change automatically means mortgage rates move the same way.
The Fed’s rate actually has a more direct impact on things like credit cards, HELOCs, auto and business loans, savings and CD's and other variable-rate debt. 30-year fixed mortgage rates are driven more by the bond market and often move before the Fed even makes an announcement. This was already factored in, and 30-year rates barely blinked (+0.02%) on decision day. (Remember 2025, when mortgage rates actually rose while the Fed was cutting rates?!)
That means waiting for the “perfect” Fed decision doesn’t guarantee you’ll get a better mortgage rate, and the news doesn't change your situation today. Trying to time housing decisions around Fed announcements simply doesn't work. Fed news isn't mortgage news.
💡 Instead of trying to time the market, focus on what actually matters:
✅ What home fits your needs?
✅ What does the monthly payment look like?
✅ And does it make sense for you right now?
If you’re thinking about buying but the fed hike or current interest rates have you wondering whether you should wait, we would love to help guide you. Real data and personal needs trump fear in the headlines every day. 🏡
