Mortgage rates are nearing 7%. One house hunter says he's "despondent."
Updated on: September 18, 2026 / 4:37 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Mortgage rates are nearing 7%, the highest since January 2025, significantly impacting home affordability.
- The rise in rates is attributed to inflation fueled by the Iran war, bond market volatility, and geopolitical tensions.
- Buyers face higher costs, while sellers contend with fewer offers, leading to price cuts or homes being removed from the market.
- The 10-year Treasury note's yield, closely linked to mortgage rates, has reached its highest level since 2007.
- The Federal Reserve's recent interest rate hike and potential future increases also influence borrowing costs.
- Existing home sales have fallen for four consecutive months, indicating a slowdown in the housing market.
- Despite earning more than double the median household income, some buyers struggle to find affordable homes due to high prices and competition.