# Understanding Today's Mortgage Market

By Brian Dewald (@briandewald) · Published 2026-10-06

Canonical: https://voce.com/@briandewald/understanding-today-mortgage-market-0tknuk

---

Today’s housing market may look different from what buyers experienced a few years ago, but different does not mean impossible. Mortgage rates have been moving, affordability remains a major concern, and buyers are being more thoughtful about when and how they move forward.

As of September 24, 2026, the national average for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 7.03%, according to Freddie Mac. However, national averages do not represent the rate every borrower will receive. Your credit, down payment, loan program, property type and other details can all affect your available options.

One positive change in today’s market is that buyers may have more homes to consider. With properties spending more time on the market in some areas, buyers could have additional opportunities to negotiate with sellers.

Instead of trying to perfectly time the market, start by understanding where you stand. A conversation with a mortgage professional can help you review your finances, estimate your buying power and create a plan that fits your goals.

Next week, we’ll look at what determines your actual monthly mortgage payment—and why there is much more to consider than the interest rate alone.

_Maverick Lending Solutions, LLC | NMLS #2503391 | Equal Housing Opportunity_