Naylor Home Loans powered by Barrett Financial Group · November 6, 2026

Builder confidence hits 14-year low—what it means for you

Mortgage Market Update

Jeff Naylor

Naylor Home Loans powered by Barrett Financial Group

Friday, November 6, 2026

Builder confidence hits 14-year low—what it means for you

This week we're tracking some important shifts in the housing market that could affect your timeline and options, whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or refinancing. Here are the stories that matter most to your wallet.

National Mortgage Rates · November 5, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.18%

FHA 30-Year

6.90%

VA 30-Year

6.76%

Rate trend

Source: Optimal Blue daily mortgage indices via FRED · 30-yr: Freddie Mac weekly survey

Rates shown are national mortgage index rates and are provided for informational purposes only. Actual rates vary based on credit profile, loan amount, and market conditions. Please contact us for a personalized rate quote.

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Affordability Math

When a rate move actually changes your budget

Here's something I see confuse a lot of people: they think a small rate change doesn't matter much. But even a modest move in rates can shift your monthly payment in ways that affect whether a home is truly affordable for you. If you're already stretched thin on your budget, or if you're trying to qualify for a larger loan, those swings add up fast. The reverse is also true—when rates move in your favor, it can suddenly open doors that were closed before. Understanding how this works helps you time your move smarter and know exactly what you can actually afford, not just what a calculator says you can technically carry.

Let's run through the real numbers on what makes sense for your situation.

Tip of the Week

Closing costs typically run 2-5% of the loan amount. Ask your lender for a Loan Estimate so there are no surprises.

Tips for Homeowners

Protecting Yourself from Mortgage Scams

1.

Wire fraud is one of the fastest-growing real estate scams. Never wire closing funds based solely on email instructions — always verify account numbers by calling your title company at a number you look up yourself.

2.

Loan modification and foreclosure rescue scams target homeowners in distress. Legitimate help is available free through HUD-approved counseling agencies at 800-569-4287.

3.

Be wary of unsolicited offers to refinance or cash out equity at terms that sound unusually favorable. If someone contacts you out of the blue, verify their NMLS license number at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

Mortgage News Daily

Builder confidence at lowest level since 2012

The National Association of Home Builders' confidence index dropped to 29 in October—the weakest reading in 14 years. Higher mortgage rates, rising construction costs, and labor shortages are squeezing builders hard, and fewer are optimistic about attracting buyers in the months ahead.

Key takeaway: If you're considering a new build, now may be a time to negotiate harder, though fewer homes may come to market in the near term.
Read full article →

Mortgage News Daily

New home sales hold steady in September

New home sales remained essentially flat month over month in September, maintaining the modest rebound from August. The inventory of new homes for sale continues to sit at historically low levels, limiting choices for buyers.

Key takeaway: The new home market is stabilizing, but tight inventory means competition is likely to remain stiff for buyers.
Read full article →

Mortgage News Daily

Home price gains remain modest but steady

Home prices crept higher in August with a 0.3% monthly increase and 2.4% annual appreciation, according to the FHFA index. Growth is uneven across regions, with some areas appreciating much faster than others.

Key takeaway: While prices are still climbing nationally, the pace is slower than historical norms—a reminder that market conditions vary significantly by location.
Read full article →

Mortgage News Daily

Existing home sales plateau after sharp 2022-2023 decline

Existing home sales have essentially flatlined since bottoming out in late 2023, with September showing only a slight uptick. The market has settled into a holding pattern after the steep drop from pre-2022 levels.

Key takeaway: The existing home market has found a floor—if you're waiting for a major shift, this sideways trend may continue for a while.
Read full article →

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Jeff Naylor team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Book a Call

Your Mortgage Advisor

Jeff Naylor

Jeff Naylor

Naylor Home Loans powered by Barrett Financial Group

jeffn@barrettfinancial.com

503-358-6551

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4800 NW Camas Meadows Drive Ste 260, Camas, WA 98607

503-358-6551  |  www.naylorhomeloans.com

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