A stronger-than-expected jobs report contrasted with other signs of a cooling labor market, as home values rose for the sixth month in a row.

Threats, rescue missions, an ultimatum, and a ceasefire. The situation in the Middle East remains fragile and unpredictable. But back home, we got another big beat from the BLS, and an encouragingly typical Spring rise in inventory.

The MBS Highway National Housing Index rose 4 points in March 2026, climbing from 43 in February to 47. A year ago, the index stood at 45. The spring seasonal upswing continues to build, with the buyer activity sub-index crossing into expansion territory for the first time since May 2024.

Even amid market uncertainty, buying a home now can boost long-term wealth: home prices are projected to rise about 4.4% over the next year, and purchasing early – by age 30 – can lead to a 22.5% higher net worth by age 50.

Getting ready to buy a home? A few simple credit habits can boost your score faster than you might expect – and potentially help you qualify for better loan terms.

MBS Highway is excited to announce our new Strike Rate tool, which was designed to help our subscribers capture more refinance opportunities that are sitting right in their pipeline – immediately as they become available.