Mortgage Refinances Surged in Q4 as Affordability Hit Best Level Since 2022
As mortgage rates eased, refinancing surged in Q4. Hundreds of thousands of homeowners cut monthly payments, while millions more may now be eligible to refinance.
As mortgage rates eased, refinancing surged in Q4. Hundreds of thousands of homeowners cut monthly payments, while millions more may now be eligible to refinance.
Spring usually favors sellers – but not in 2026. In several major metros, sellers outnumber buyers 2-to-1, creating rare opportunities for homebuyers seeking affordability and negotiating power.
Mortgage payments aren’t just principal and interest anymore. Taxes and insurance now account for 21% of average housing costs, with some areas seeing the share climb above 40%.
Why do most homebuyers choose 30-year mortgages? Lower payments and greater buying power play a big role, and the long-term interest gap isn’t always as large as it seems.
Low mortgage rates locked millions of homeowners in place, limiting housing supply. A new Harvard study finds this “rate lock” effect helped prevent the steep home price drop many economists predicted.
Ohio voters could weigh two constitutional amendments: abolish property taxes entirely or replace them with a land value tax, reshaping a $24 billion funding stream for local governments.
Sixty percent of seniors say they prefer aging in place over other options. But costs and the possibility of deteriorating health demand continuing flexibility.
Is the housing slump nearing its end? NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun breaks down why 2026 could bring a sharp rebound in home sales.
Most home closing delays are preventable. A loan officer explains the most common causes and what buyers can do to avoid last-minute surprises.
Mortgage lenders argue soaring credit report fees are driving up costs. Now they’re asking lawmakers to step in, but will borrowers actually see any savings?