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Struggling US home buyers, and market, face new hurdles as mortgage rates near 7%
Economists say the Fed’s latest increase could keep borrowing costs elevated as buyers face higher monthly payments and fewer affordable options.
On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve voted to boost its benchmark interest rate by 0.25%, pushing 30-year fixed-rate mortgages above the 7% threshold this week.
Mortgage rates follow the trajectory of 10-year Treasurys, influenced by inflation and bond market expectations. Rising borrowing costs have kept the housing market in a rut since the war between the U.S. and Iran began in late February.
Freddie Mac reported a 14-month high of 6.76% on Sept. 10, while Orlando Regional Realtor Association President Chris Atwell noted Central Florida median home prices remain above $400,000.
Higher rates squeeze affordability and sideline prospective buyers, said Lisa Sturtevant, chief economist at Bright MLS. Sellers may need to "reduce prices, offer more concessions or lower the price of the house" to attract buyers.
The Fed indicated Wednesday that another rate hike could occur later this year. "I believe probably for the rest of the year, we'll be in that same environment," Ali Partovi of Partovi Funding LLC said.