Mortgage Rates & Market Updates

Mortgage rates are influenced by economic data, inflation trends, Federal Reserve policy, and global markets — not just headlines.

In this section, I break down what’s happening in the mortgage-backed securities market and how economic reports may impact rates. You’ll find:

  • Weekly mortgage rate updates
  • Federal Reserve (FOMC) commentary
  • Inflation and employment report insights
  • Housing market trends
  • Legislative updates affecting lending

My goal is to translate complex economic movement into practical guidance for buyers and homeowners.

If you want context — not speculation — this is where you’ll find it.

The Mortgage Porter Weekly: Mortgage Rates, Inflation, War and HELOC Program

Mortgage Rate Update — Week of April 13, 2026

This week’s update covers March inflation data, a stronger-than-expected jobs report, the latest on mortgage-backed securities, and a spotlight on a powerful but underused product — the first lien HELOC, also known as an offset mortgage.

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Discount Points vs. Rebate Credit: How Mortgage Rate Pricing Works

pricing mortgage ratesWhen you get a mortgage rate quote, the interest rate is only part of the picture. Every rate comes with a price — and that price is expressed as either discount points or rebate credit. Understanding how this works gives you real control over your closing costs and monthly payment. [Read more…]

The Mortgage Porter Weekly: Mortgage Rates, Jobs Data, Inflation Reports, Iran Conflict and Condo Guidelines

Mortgage rates slightly improved heading into the week of April 6, 2026 — but volatility remains the theme as the war in Iran, rising oil prices, and a packed economic calendar keep markets on edge.

In this week’s update, we covers last week’s stronger-than-expected jobs report, what the Iran conflict means for bond markets and mortgage pricing, where mortgage-backed securities stand this Monday morning, and a major spotlight on brand-new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac condo financing guidelines that took effect in March 2026 — changes that could directly impact condo buyers and owners across King, Pierce, and Snohomish County.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, move-up buyer, or homeowner considering a refinance, this weekly update is designed to help you make informed decisions in a fast-moving market.

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Mortgage Rate History: Putting Today’s Rates in Context

mortgage interest rate historyOne of the most common concerns I hear from buyers and homeowners in Washington State is that today’s mortgage rates feel high. And compared to where rates were in 2020 and 2021, they are. But compared to the full history of mortgage rates in the United States, the picture looks quite different.

Understanding where today’s rates sit in historical context is one of the most useful things a buyer or homeowner can know — and it often changes how people think about waiting versus acting. [Read more…]

Mortgage Rates Week of March 30, 2026 — Rates Improving After a Rough March

Mortgage rates had a tough March — but heading into this week, we’re starting to see some welcome improvement. Here’s what’s been happening and what to watch for in the days ahead.


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