Chris George · September 17, 2026

The Fed rate-hike cycle has started. What’s next?

Chris George

Mortgage Market Update

Chris George

Chris George

Thursday, September 17, 2026

The Fed rate-hike cycle has started. What’s next?

Welcome to your mortgage market update from Chris George for Thursday, September 17, 2026. This week we've rounded up the latest news from HousingWire so you have everything you need in one place. Read on for the stories that matter most to homebuyers and homeowners right now.

National Mortgage Rates · September 10, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

6.26%

FHA 30-Year

6.19%

VA 30-Year

6.08%

Rate trend

Source: Freddie Mac PMMS & Optimal Blue via FRED

Rates shown are national averages and are provided for informational purposes only. Actual rates vary based on credit profile, loan amount, and market conditions. Please contact us for a personalized rate quote.

Check My Rate →

Rate Watch

What This Week's Rate Movement Means for Your Payment

Mortgage rates move a little almost every week, and small shifts add up to real dollars on your monthly payment. On a typical loan, even a quarter-point change can mean $50 or more a month — money that's better in your pocket. The good news: you don't have to time the market perfectly. What matters most is being ready, with your credit in good shape and your documents handy, so when a window opens we can move quickly. If you bought or refinanced in the last couple of years, it's worth a five-minute check to see whether today's rates could lower your payment. There's no obligation and no cost to run the numbers — just clarity on where you stand.

Want to see what today's rates mean for your payment? Let's run the numbers together.

Tip of the Week

Replace weatherstripping around exterior doors every few years. It's one of the cheapest ways to improve energy efficiency.

Tips for Homeowners

USDA Loans: A Zero-Down Option for Rural Buyers

1.

USDA loans offer 100% financing (no down payment) for eligible properties in USDA-designated rural and suburban areas. The USDA's eligibility map may include areas closer to cities than you'd expect.

2.

USDA loans have income limits — typically 115% of the area median income. Both the property location and borrower income must qualify.

3.

There's an upfront guarantee fee (1% of the loan) and an annual fee (0.35% of the balance). These are lower than FHA mortgage insurance and can be rolled into the loan.

HousingWire

The Fed rate-hike cycle has started. What’s next?

Key factors for mortgage rates will be the Iran conflict and trade war, not just the economy

Key takeaway: Key factors for mortgage rates will be the Iran conflict and trade war, not just the economy
Read full article →

HousingWire

Housing Market Spotlight: The housing market signal to watch as rates top 7%

New listings and pending sales can offer an early look at whether buyer demand is losing ground

Key takeaway: New listings and pending sales can offer an early look at whether buyer demand is losing ground
Read full article →

HousingWire

What real estate professionals should know about the Fed rate hike

Housing professionals said the psychological effect on homebuyers and sellers is immediate

Key takeaway: Housing professionals said the psychological effect on homebuyers and sellers is immediate
Read full article →

HousingWire

Why more builder discounts are not unlocking new-home demand

In September, two out of three homebuilders used incentives and 38% cut prices by 6% on average

Key takeaway: In September, two out of three homebuilders used incentives and 38% cut prices by 6% on average
Read full article →

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Chris George team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Book a Call

Your Mortgage Advisor

Chris George

Chris George

Chris George

cgeorge@barrettfinancial.com

615-422-4705

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2701 E Insight Way, Suite 150, Chandler, AZ, 85286

615-422-4705  |  https://www.cgmtgteam.com

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