Home Buyers Abandon Hopes for Lower Mortgage Rates as Housing Slump Persists Into Spring 2026
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · May 28
Home Buyers Abandon Hopes for Lower Mortgage Rates as Housing Slump Persists Into Spring 2026
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · May 28
Spring 2026 has failed to revive the housing market, with many would-be buyers pulling back as hopes fade for cheaper mortgages.
Higher-than-expected mortgage rates are driving that hesitation, while high inflation and widespread job insecurity further weaken buyers’ willingness to enter the market.
The latest slowdown suggests the market has not shaken off its slump as many had anticipated this spring, leaving buyers to reassess when — or whether — to wade in.
Amid widespread pessimism, could rising inventory and builder incentives be creating a secret buyer's market?
With global conflicts fueling inflation, can the US housing market truly recover before 2027?
As AI drives job insecurity, is the 30-year mortgage becoming too risky for the average American worker?