09/01/2026
So very true. Feeling the effect of this greatly with my homebuyers trying to find a home to purchase.😠
The Mortgage Rate Lock-In Effect
Ever wonder why finding a home to buy feels almost impossible right now? A huge reason is that nearly half of all homeowners are holding onto mortgages with interest rates under 4%. When you're sitting on a record-low rate, trading it in for today's higher interest rates can double your monthly payment for a similar house. This creates a "golden handcuff" effect—sellers refuse to list their properties because moving simply doesn't make financial sense. Until rates drop or life changes force people to move, inventory is going to stay tight!