Mortgage rates continue to be one of the most talked-about topics for homebuyers and homeowners across Washington State. Whether you’re hoping to buy your first home, move up, or refinance, it’s natural to wonder: where are mortgage rates headed in 2026?
While no forecast is guaranteed, several respected housing and mortgage organizations regularly publish outlooks that can help set realistic expectations. Below is a Washington-focused look at what groups like the Mortgage Bankers Association, Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and Zillow are projecting — and what it could mean for buyers and homeowners here in the Pacific Northwest.
Midyear Update (July 2026): Rates didn’t follow this forecast exactly — the Iran war sent them from a February low of 5.98% up to roughly 6.75% by spring. 👉 Read: See the full midyear recap and updated forecast for the rest of 2026.
How Do I Compare Mortgage Lenders or Loan Officers?
Last week I had fun creating a spoof where I’m consoling a 
