I hope you had a wonderful Fourth of July and enjoyed celebrating America’s 250th birthday. It felt especially meaningful this year and was such a beautiful reminder of the traditions and freedoms we are fortunate to share.

As we move into the second half of 2026, interest rates remain at the center of the housing conversation. Mortgage rates are closely tied to the 10-year Treasury yield, and while many expected two or three Fed rate cuts this year, a stronger labor market changed that outlook. At one point, there was even discussion of a possible rate increase.

The market is now adjusting to the reality that we are unlikely to see the exceptionally low rates of the Covid years again. Buyers and sellers seem to be accepting that rates in the 6% range may be our new normal—and that real estate decisions will once again come down to pricing, preparation, and long-term value.

If you are considering buying, selling, or simply want to understand what today’s rates mean for your home, I would be happy to talk through the market with you.

-Christy