The latest home price data highlights the value of homeownership. Meanwhile, January’s wholesale inflation surprised to the upside, and unemployment filings don’t tell the full story of the labor market.

Last week, average 30-yr mortgage rates dropped to 5.99% — a near 4-year low. But transaction volumes haven’t significantly picked up yet. What’s the problem? Time. Refis can be done quickly, but buying a home takes months (from the initial decision to start looking.) Plus, it’s still the low season. If rates can stay this low into spring, buying will bloom.

The MBS Highway National Housing Index jumped in February 2026, rising 9 points from January to 43. A year ago, the index stood at 41. Lower mortgage rates and improved affordability are boosting the normal seasonal upswing.

A busy week at the Federal Reserve featured President Trump’s plan to nominate Kevin Warsh as the next Fed chair and a divided decision to hold interest rates steady.

A low mortgage rate is great – but it’s only part of the picture. Higher-interest debt elsewhere could be costing you more than you realize.

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.