Ted Learakos

09/15/2026

📈 MORTGAGE MARKET UPDATE | RATES ARE ON THE MOVE

Mortgage rates are starting the week moving higher, as markets brace for Wednesday’s Federal Reserve decision.

The conversation has shifted. Markets are now preparing for the possibility of higher near-term policy rates, while rising tensions in the Middle East and oil prices above $100/barrel are adding another layer of inflation uncertainty.

So, with mortgage rates climbing again, here’s the big question:

🚨 IS IT TIME TO PANIC?

No.

Changing markets don’t mean there aren’t opportunities—they simply mean you need the right strategy.

🏡 Whether you’re thinking about buying, refinancing, or simply wondering what today’s rates mean for you, call me or anyone on our team. Let’s talk through the options and find a solution that fits your situation.

And for a little perspective…

📅 On June 14, 1985, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 12.27%.

We survived. We adapted. We thrived.

Today’s market may be changing, but opportunities are still out there. 🔑

📲 Call for current rates and exact quotes based on FICO score and loan type.

09/11/2026

📈 MORTGAGE MARKET UPDATE | RATES MOVE HIGHER

Mortgage rates moved slightly higher following the latest U.S. Treasury buyback announcement.

Treasuries play an important role in the mortgage market, often serving as a baseline for mortgage pricing. The market had been anticipating a larger Treasury buyback announcement than what was ultimately delivered, causing bond yields—and mortgage rates—to move higher in response.

The good news? Rates didn’t spike, but they did experience some upward pressure.

👀 WHAT’S NEXT?
All eyes are now on Friday’s CPI inflation report, which could be the next major catalyst for mortgage rates.

🏡 Thinking about buying or refinancing? Rates can vary based on FICO score, loan type, and individual scenario. Call for an exact, personalized quote.

08/27/2026

Mortgage Talk with Ted | Rates Follow Oil Prices Lower 📉🏡

Some welcome movement for homebuyers and homeowners: mortgage rates moved lower as oil prices fell.

Recent reports of progress in peace negotiations sent oil prices sharply lower, and bond yields followed. Since mortgage rates tend to move in the same direction as bond yields, that helped push rates lower as well.

Even better, FHA and VA loan rates have dropped below 6% again.

We’ll be watching closely to see if this momentum continues throughout the week. If you’re considering buying, refinancing, or simply want to know what today’s rates could mean for you, reach out to myself or anyone on the team for a personalized rate quote.

08/13/2026

📉 Mortgage Rates Return to 3-Week Lows

Mortgage rates are back at their lowest levels in three weeks.

Today's economic data brought more encouraging inflation news, helping rates return to levels we last saw three weeks ago. While the market remains sensitive to upcoming economic reports, this is welcome news for buyers looking to maximize their purchasing power and homeowners considering a refinance.

Every borrower's situation is unique. Loan type, down payment, equity, and credit profile all play a role in determining your rate, so now is a great time to explore your options and see what's available.

Whether you're purchasing a new home, refinancing your current mortgage, or looking to leverage your home's equity, the right financing strategy can make all the difference.

08/05/2026

🏡 Mortgage Market Update - Mortgage Rates Are at Their Lowest in Over 2 Weeks

Good news for homebuyers and homeowners—average 30-year fixed mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest levels in more than two weeks.

Recent gains in the bond market have encouraged lenders to improve pricing, creating a potential opportunity for anyone looking to purchase a home or explore refinancing.

If you've been waiting for the right time to see what today's rates could mean for you, now is a great time to get an updated quote.

📞 Call 714-349-7733 or reach out to anyone on our team to discuss your options and receive a personalized mortgage quote.

07/24/2026

📈 Mortgage Rates Reach a 1-Year High... But Here's the Bigger Picture

Mortgage rates moved higher again today, reaching their highest level in over a year. Surprisingly, mortgage applications also increased.

Why? Because many buyers are realizing that waiting for the "perfect" rate may mean missing the right home. 🏡

Here's the encouraging news: While today's rates are higher than they've been in the past year, that says more about how favorable the last 12 months have been than it does about today's market. From July 2025 through February 2026, mortgage rates experienced one of the longest stretches of stability and gradual improvement we've seen since rates began climbing in 2022.

The takeaway? Don't let today's headlines keep you on the sidelines. The right home, combined with the right financing strategy, can still make perfect financial sense.

💡 One advantage for our clients: Several of our Credit Union partners lock in their mortgage rates every Monday for the week, providing added consistency during weeks when the market is more volatile.

If you're wondering how today's rates affect your buying power—or if it's still a good time to purchase—I'm happy to run the numbers and discuss your options. Reach out anytime! 📲

07/21/2026

📈 Mortgage rates are starting the week a little higher.

After ending last week on a positive note, mortgage rates are moving back toward recent highs as the new week begins. While markets continue to fluctuate, there's one advantage my clients have...

✅ Our Credit Union partners lock in their rates on Mondays, providing stability throughout the week.

If you're thinking about buying a home, refinancing, or simply wondering what today's market means for your situation, now is a great time to have a conversation.

Every borrower is different, and the best rate depends on your unique goals and financial picture.

📞 Call or text me today for a personalized mortgage quote and expert guidance.

07/13/2026

📉 Mortgage Rates Start the Week Under Pressure

Geopolitical tensions are back in focus as renewed military activity involving the U.S. and Iran has added uncertainty to the markets. As a result, bond markets opened weaker, putting upward pressure on mortgage rates.

The good news? Investors are still treating the situation as a short-term geopolitical event rather than the beginning of a prolonged conflict. If that outlook changes, market volatility—and interest rates—could shift quickly.

🏡 Expect mortgage rates to be more volatile than usual this week. If you're considering buying, refinancing, or locking in a rate, now is a good time to stay informed.

💡 Fun fact: Our Credit Union Partnerships establish their mortgage rates every Monday for the week, making today an especially important day for anyone watching the market.

📲 Have questions about today's rates or wondering if now is the right time to lock? Reach out—I'm happy to help you navigate your options.

07/06/2026

📉 Mortgage Rates Flat to Start the Week

Last week's job count came in much weaker than expected.

The jobs report is one of the most important pieces of economic data for the bond market—and because bonds help drive mortgage rates, there's a direct connection. Generally, weaker jobs data can lead to lower mortgage rates, all else being equal.

After the three-day holiday weekend, the bond market held steady, and mortgage rates started the week relatively flat.

🏡 Have you ever been told your client's FICO score is too low?

There may be more options than you think.

🎥 Check out last week's Mortgage Talk With Ted to learn how manual underwriting can help certain buyers qualify for a mortgage—even when their credit score isn't perfect. It may be a valuable resource for future client conversations. 😉

In this episode of Mortgage Talk With Ted, Ted Learakos sits down w...

07/04/2026

🇺🇸 Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸

Today, we celebrate 250 years of American independence—a milestone that reminds us of the values that continue to shape our communities: freedom, opportunity, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

Whether you're spending the day with family, enjoying a neighborhood barbecue, or watching fireworks light up the sky, I hope you're able to take a moment to appreciate the people and memories that make this holiday so special.

Wishing you a safe, relaxing, and memorable Independence Day.

Happy Fourth of July!