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Why Steady Rates Might Be the Advantage Buyers Need Right Now

I’m excited to share some news before we jump into this week’s market update: I’ve officially joined Sequence Mortgage as a Senior Loan Officer here in Petaluma! With the support of an incredible local team and the ability to lend in most states across the U.S., I’m more excited than ever to help clients navigate their path to homeownership with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or investing, my team and I are here to help you find the right mortgage solution. 

As we head into the summer homebuying season, one thing has become clear: while interest rates remain elevated compared to historic lows, they’ve finally found some footing. Rates have held steady in recent weeks, and that steadiness is giving buyers and sellers something the market hasn’t offered much of—predictability.

In an environment where so much can shift overnight, having a clearer idea of where rates are headed helps buyers and sellers alike plan with confidence. That consistency can make all the difference in getting a deal across the finish line.

This newfound sense of rate stability is especially helpful given the continued strength of home prices.

Demand is still strong, inventory remains tight, and multiple-offer scenarios are common in many areas. Buyers are competing—but they’re competing with a clearer financial picture. That can be a game-changer for many, especially first-time buyers who are navigating affordability concerns. Even in this competitive climate, knowing your numbers as buyers and sellers can allow you to act quickly and decisively when the right situation comes along.

Remember, the right home is different for everyone, and while deals are harder to come by, they’re not impossible. Sometimes, all it takes is the perfect match between a motivated seller and a strategic buyer. 

Looking ahead, this week brings important economic data that could impact the rate conversation in the coming weeks. The spotlight is on inflation, with May’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) reports set to be released on Wednesday and Thursday. Economists are expecting a slight uptick in inflation—partly driven by concerns around potential tariffs—which could influence future Federal Reserve decisions.

If inflation shows signs of heating up, rate cuts may stay off the table longer than hoped. However, if the data comes in cooler than expected, the door could open for more favorable conditions later this year.

This week’s economic calendar Wednesday – Friday:

Wednesday, June 11

  • Consumer Price Index (CPI) – May
    • MoM: +0.2% expected (same as April)
    • YoY: +2.5% expected (up from 2.3%)
  • Core CPI
    • MoM: +0.3% expected
    • YoY: +2.9% expected
  • Real Average Hourly Earnings YoY (Prior: +1.4%)
  • MBA Mortgage Applications, week ending June 6 (Prior -3.9%)

Thursday, June 12

  • Producer Price Index (PPI) – May
    • MoM: +0.3% expected (vs. -0.5% prior)
    • YoY: +2.4%
  • Core PPI
    • MoM: +0.4% expected
    • YoY: +3.1%
  • Initial Jobless Claims (Prior: 247,000)
  • Continuing Claims (Prior: 1.904 million)

Friday, June 13

  • University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment – June preliminary (52 expected, 52.2 prior)

I’m here to help you navigate what these market shifts mean for your homeownership journey. Whether you’re ready to buy, thinking about refinancing, or just trying to make sense of the headlines, feel free to reach out anytime.

~Hannah

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