Here is your real estate news for Thursday, February 5th.
Winter Storm Tanks Mortgage Applications
Mortgage applications fell 8.9% last week as Winter Storm Fern blanketed much of the country. Purchase applications took the biggest hit, dropping 14% on a seasonally adjusted basis. The Southeast saw a 5.35% decline. The silver lining? January 2026 borrower intent was still up 5.26% compared to January 2025, and the dip is widely attributed to weather rather than weakening demand. Expect a bounce-back as conditions improve.
Congress Urged to Move on Housing Supply Bills
The Bipartisan Policy Center is pushing congressional leaders to bring two major housing bills to a vote. The ROAD to Housing Act, sponsored by Senators Tim Scott and Elizabeth Warren, passed the Senate unanimously in October but is still waiting on the House. Meanwhile, the Housing for the 21st Century Act focuses on zoning reform, accessory dwelling units, and streamlined permitting. Both bills aim to tackle the national housing supply shortage that continues to drive up prices.
Mortgage Rates (February 5th, 2026):
- 30-Year Fixed-Rate: 6.21%
- 15-Year Fixed-Rate: 5.61%
- 30-Year Jumbo: 6.11%
- 10 Year Treasury Yield: 4.28%
In the competitive real estate market, staying informed is crucial for both buyers and sellers. By understanding mortgage trends, housing market shifts, and the broader economic environment, individuals can make well-informed decisions. This knowledge can lead to more effective pricing strategies, better investment timing, and smoother transactions. For buyers, tracking mortgage rates can help them secure more favorable terms, while sellers who know their local market trends can set more competitive listing prices. Overall, staying updated on these topics not only helps real estate professionals serve their clients better, but also empowers everyday buyers and sellers to achieve their property goals.
Thanks for reading,
Chris
