Optimal Blue report: Purchase demand lifts mortgage lock activity as rates rise

Optimal Blue report: Purchase demand lifts mortgage lock activity as rates rise

Lock volume rises 13% month over month as spring buying season gains traction

Optimal Blue reports March 2026 purchase locks jump 38%

Mortgage activity remained resilient as purchase demand strengthened, despite interest rates climbing, according to Optimal Blue’s March 2026 Market Advantage report, released on Tuesday. Total rate-lock volume increased 13% from February and 26% from a year earlier. Purchase activity drove the gains, with purchase lock volume rising 38% month over month and 20% year over year. Refinance activity was mixed. Cash-out refinance volume rose 9% from…