Most of the headlines still sound dramatic.

The data? It’s actually stabilizing.

I just recorded my February 2026 Mortgage Market Update, and there are a few important shifts happening that directly impact you.

Here’s the quick breakdown:

• Rates have settled into the low 6% range, the lowest levels we’ve seen in about three years.
• Affordability is improving for the first time since 2022. Monthly payments as a percentage of income are moving back toward healthier levels.
• Home price growth has cooled to a 14-year low, which is helping buyers breathe again.
• Wage growth is staying strong, helping offset prior rate spikes.
• Even a 1% drop in mortgage rates can bring millions of additional buyers into the market. That means opportunity, but also potential competition.

We’re also seeing more homeowners finally comfortable making a move again. Transition plans, bridge strategies, seller credits, temporary rate buydowns. These are being used strategically and responsibly.

This isn’t a runaway market. It’s a stabilizing one. And stabilization creates opportunity.

👉 If you’re considering buying, selling, refinancing, or planning a move later this year, let’s schedule a quick strategy call so we can run your numbers and map out timing.

https://kevinbrierton.com/call/

Clarity beats guessing every time.

Talk soon,
Kevin Brierton
Your No Excuse Lender

P.S. The biggest financial mistake I see is people waiting for perfect conditions instead of building a plan. A short strategy call gives you clarity on payment, timing, and options so you’re ready before the next rate move creates urgency.

Kevin Brierton
Branch Manager - Certified mortgage planning specialist - CLA
NMLS #599873
Scottsdale, AZ

CONNECT WITH ME

kevin@kevinbrierton.com
www.kevinbrierton.com
https://www.facebook.com/TheBriertonTeam

ABOUT KEVIN BRIERTON
I have been in mortgage banking since 2004. During this time, I have successfully helped more than 1,650 families with more than $500 Million in residential mortgages, placing me consistently among the top in the industry. I spend the 1st Friday of every month studying all of our products, guidelines, & lending criteria.

In addition, I work closely with our underwriting & secondary markets to fully understand all our mortgage products to ensure I am able to empower more families to gain homeownership. Our team of fully trained mortgage specialists has the attitude of “how can we make this loan work” rather than just assuming it won’t. Other Lenders find problems, we find solutions, and we are excited to find a solution for you & your Family!

Copyright © 2025 Luminate Bank NMLS# 1281698. Corporate Headquarters 2523 S. Wayzata Blvd, Suite 200, Minneapolis, MN 55405. This advertisement does not constitute a loan approval or loan commitment. Loan Approval and/or loan commitment is subject to final underwriting review and approval. For licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org | Privacy Policy - https://www.luminate.bank/privacy-policy | Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender