Housing and Economic Research
Original research and analysis on housing trends, the economy and the mortgage market
Low Mortgage Rates, Strong Labor Market Fueling Housing Market
The recent decline in mortgage rates stem from the on-going global trade disputes and weakening global economy, which have led to a drop in long term interest rates in most countries. Despite the negative impacts of trade and the deteriorating global economy, the domestic U.S. economy continues to grow and the three-year low in mortgage rates has poised housing to reaccelerate.
Read More>Low Mortgage Rates, Strong Labor Market Fueling Housing Market
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Forecast | Jul 30, 2019
Housing Market Sees Increased Momentum Due to Low Mortgage Rates
During the last week of May, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage dipped below 4.0% and has remained there amid concerns over trade disputes, a possible economic slowdown, and market anticipation of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut. More
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Consumer Research | Jun 26, 2019
New Survey Reveals Affordability Challenges for Renters and Homeowners
A new Freddie Mac survey of renters and homeowners shows that affordability issues continue to have profound impacts on homeowners and renters — with more than half of Americans making spending or housing changes to afford their monthly housing payment. More
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Forecast | Jun 17, 2019
Housing Market Expected to Realize the Positive Impacts of Low Mortgage Rates in 2019
Concern about future world economic growth and uncertainty around trade and monetary policy have put downward pressure on interest rates. As of the first week of June, the U.S. weekly average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 3.82%, the lowest since September of 2017. More
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Insight | Jun 14, 2019
Freddie Mac’s Mortgage Rate Survey Explained
Research Note: Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) is the longest running weekly survey of mortgage interest rates in the United States. Since Freddie Mac launched its survey in 1971, others have begun collecting and reporting mortgage rate information. More
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Forecast | May 15, 2019
A Steadily Growing Housing Market
After increasing throughout April, mortgage rates declined at the start of May. The combined positive impact of low mortgage rates, a strong labor market, low unemployment, and modest wage growth supports our forecast for a steadily growing housing market in 2019. More
Opinions, estimates, forecasts and other views contained in this document are those of Freddie Mac's Economic & Housing Research group, do not necessarily represent the views of Freddie Mac or its management, should not be construed as indicating Freddie Mac's business prospects or expected results, and are subject to change without notice. Although the Economic & Housing Research group attempts to provide reliable, useful information, it does not guarantee that the information is accurate, current or suitable for any particular purpose. The information is therefore provided on an “as is” basis, with no warranties of any kind whatsoever. Information from this document may be used with proper attribution. Alteration of this document is strictly prohibited. ©2019 by Freddie Mac.