09/21/2026
The Fed raised rates last week. By Friday, mortgage rates were roughly back where they started before the announcement. Here’s how that played out:
On September 16, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark rate by a quarter point, citing persistent inflation. Markets largely expected that move.
The bigger reaction came during the press conference, when comments about potential additional hikes sent bond prices lower and yields higher, pushing mortgage rates up.
But that initial reaction didn’t stick.
According to Mortgage News Daily’s Thursday recap, its average top-tier 30-year fixed rate fell from 7.24% Wednesday to 7.19% Thursday as bonds recovered.
By Friday, that average edged up to 7.20%. MND reported that mortgage rates finished essentially in line with Wednesday morning’s levels before the Fed announcement, even though bonds gave back some gains.
As of Monday morning, MND’s market update showed bonds starting stronger as oil prices continued falling. That’s encouraging for mortgage pricing, but an early trading improvement doesn’t guarantee lower rates throughout the day.
The takeaway for buyers: mortgage rates respond to the bond market’s changing outlook for inflation and the economy. They don’t automatically follow the Fed’s benchmark rate.
If you’re shopping for a home, let’s revisit your numbers so you know what today’s market means for your payment and cash needed to close.
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*Rates effective 9/21/2026. Rates quoted are estimates and based on a qualifying credit score. Loan-to-Value’s (LTV) of 95% for Conventional Loans, 100% for VA Loans, and 96.5% for FHA Loans. This payment does not include taxes and homeowner’s insurance and is an estimate; your actual payment will be higher. An annual and monthly mortgage insurance premium may be required and will vary depending on the loan characterization. Payments and rates may vary based on borrower’s credit score, actual closing costs and other variables. Depending on your situation, flood, property hazard, and mortgage insurance may be needed, which could increase the monthly payment and Annual Percentage Rate (APR).