Real Estate News 04/24/2026

Mortgage applications edged higher as lower interest rates sparked a modest rebound in refinancing activity, even as home purchase demand remained relatively weak. Overall market activity continues to show early spring momentum, but affordability pressures are still limiting stronger growth in buyer demand.

In The News:

The Mortgage Note –“Mortgage Demand Inches Up As Rates Move Down“ (04-22-2026)

“Mortgage demand is showing signs of life as rates dip slightly to 6.48%. Refinancing activity is picking up, but homebuyers are still holding back amid affordability challenges.”

Realtor –“How Rhode Island Boosted Housing Production by 150% in Response to Crisis Shortage“ (04-20-2026)

“Rhode Island reports a 150% increase in housing production since 2021, driven by major reforms, funding, and permitting changes aimed at easing its severe housing shortage.”

NAR –“Equity Rich Buyers, Sellers Are Driving Today's Housing Market” (04-15-2026)

“Equity-rich baby boomers continue to dominate today’s housing market, driving a majority of home sales and purchases as rising home values give long-time owners greater financial flexibility.”

Redfin News –“U.S Home Prices Inched Up 0.1% in March” (03-11-2026)

“U.S. home prices continued to cool in March, rising just 0.1% month over month as high mortgage rates and economic uncertainty dampened demand.”

Redfin News –“More Than 50,000 Home-Purchase Contracts Fell Through in March“(03-25-2026)

"More than 50,000 home-purchase deals fell through in March as higher costs, rate volatility, and economic uncertainty pushed cancellation rates to one of the highest levels on record..”