The Mortgage Porter Weekly – Mortgage Rates and More

Episode 1 of 2026: What Moves Mortgage Rates & What to Watch Next

Welcome to the first episode of The Mortgage Porter – Mortgage Rates and More for 2026.

As we begin the new year, this week’s update focuses on one of the most common — and important — questions for homebuyers and homeowners alike: what causes mortgage interest rates to move.

I also share where mortgage rates are currently sitting, how they’re trending, which upcoming economic reports can move the market, and important updates on homebuyer education for the weeks ahead.

What Causes Mortgage Interest Rates to Move?

Mortgage rates don’t move randomly — they are influenced by a combination of financial markets, economic data, and investor behavior.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How mortgage rates are tied to the bond market
• Why rates can change daily (and sometimes multiple times in a day)
• How inflation, employment data, and economic confidence impact rates

Understanding these fundamentals can help buyers and homeowners better interpret rate headlines and market movement.

Where Mortgage Rates Are Now & How They’re Trending

We also review:

• Where mortgage rates are currently landing at the start of 2026
• How rates have been trending recently
• What that trend could mean for buyers and homeowners planning next steps

While rates will always fluctuate, having context around the broader trend can help with planning and decision-making.

Economic Indicators to Watch

Several scheduled economic reports have the potential to move mortgage rates. In this week’s video, I highlight:

• Employment and jobs data
• Other key economic indicators that investors closely watch

These reports often cause short-term volatility, which is why timing and strategy can matter when locking a rate.

Next Homebuyer Workshop – January 21

I’m excited to share that our next live homebuyer workshop is scheduled for:

📅 January 21, 2026
⏰ Noon – 1:00 PM

Where: LIVE via Zoom! RSVP to watch from your computer (you’re not on screen 😅)

This session will include:

• An overview of mortgage programs available to homebuyers
• Guidance for first-time and repeat buyers
• Practical insights to help you feel prepared and confident

In addition, previously recorded homebuyer workshops are being released and posted on The Mortgage Porter blog, making it easier to learn at your own pace.

Kicking Off 2026

As we begin a new year, my goal remains the same: to provide clear, timely, and helpful information so you can make informed decisions about your home financing.

Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to continuing The Mortgage Porter – Mortgage Rates and More with you throughout 2026.

Watch this week’s episode above and let me know if you have questions you’d like covered in future updates.

Thinking about buying or refinancing your home or just have questions about mortgages? Let’s chat!