Mortgage Market News: Home Sales Rise, Fed Holds Rates Steady

Highway Heroes: Top Producer Interview with Brandon Poulos

In this episode of On the Highway, Bridget Hardonk talks with top-producing loan officer Brandon Poulos about what it really takes to build a lasting mortgage career. Drawing from more than 20 years in the industry, Brandon shares lessons on adapting through market shifts, building strong referral relationships, creating structure through themed workdays, and why proactive communication remains one of the most overlooked keys to success. He also offers a practical look at how he uses AI as a thought partner while emphasizing that mortgage lending will always be a people-first business.

Mortgage Market News: Home Sales Rise, Fed Holds Rates Steady

Markets received encouraging news as the United States and Iran agreed to extend their ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, reducing concerns about global energy supplies. At the same time, the Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged in Kevin Warsh's first meeting as Chair. Housing data painted a mixed picture, with homebuilders pulling back on new construction while pending home sales continued to increase. Other economic reports showed updates on consumer spending and weekly jobless claims, offering a broader look at the health of the economy.

The Supply-Demand Story Homebuyers Should Know

When it comes to home prices, one of the most important forces is simple: supply and demand.

Mortgage Market News: Energy Fuels Inflation, Home Sales Improve

Elevated energy and gasoline costs pushed inflation higher in May, while existing home sales reached their fastest pace of the year. Three themes stand out from the latest data: rising energy costs driving broader inflation, home sales posting their strongest showing of 2026, and jobless claims drawing renewed attention.

June 2026 MBS Highway Housing Index

The MBS Highway National Housing Index fell 9 points in June 2026, dropping from 47 in May to 38. Buyer activity declined sharply from the previous month, while price direction reversed its slow but steady climb.