The 2026 housing market is starting to show signs of relief for buyers—and one of the most important metrics is finally moving in the right direction: monthly mortgage payments . According to new data from the Mortgage Bankers Association, mortgage payments have declined compared to last year, giving buyers a much-needed improvement in affordability. While headlines often focus on home prices or interest rates, the monthly payment  is what truly determines whether someone can buy a home. And...

The latest housing data shows something we haven’t seen much of over the past few years: a measurable improvement in home affordability . But before you assume the market is suddenly “better,” the reality is more nuanced—and more important to understand if you're planning to buy a home. According to ATTOM Data Solutions and their Q1 U.S. Home Affordability Report , affordability improved slightly compared to the previous quarter. The percentage of counties where homeownership is considered...

Mortgage rates are on the rise again in 2026, and the latest data confirms what many homebuyers and homeowners are starting to feel—financing a home is becoming more expensive. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, average mortgage rates increased across all major loan types last week, reaching their highest levels since October 2025. For buyers and homeowners in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida, this shift is more than just a headline—it directly impacts purchasing power,...