Naylor Home Loans powered by Barrett Financial Group · September 3, 2026

New home sales slip, but existing homes hold steady

Mortgage Market Update

Jeff Naylor

Naylor Home Loans powered by Barrett Financial Group

Thursday, September 3, 2026

New home sales slip, but existing homes hold steady

The housing market sent mixed signals this week, with some segments cooling while others stayed resilient. Here's what it means for your wallet and timeline.

National Mortgage Rates · August 27, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.66%

FHA 30-Year

6.56%

VA 30-Year

6.40%

Rate trend

Source: Freddie Mac PMMS & Optimal Blue via FRED

Rates shown are national averages and are provided for informational purposes only. Actual rates vary based on credit profile, loan amount, and market conditions. Please contact us for a personalized rate quote.

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Loan Programs

What loan program is right for your situation?

Not all mortgages are created equal, and the best loan for your neighbor might not be the best for you. Some borrowers benefit from fixed rates that lock in predictability; others find adjustable options work better for their timeline. First-time buyers have different needs than repeat homeowners. The right choice depends on your down payment, how long you plan to stay in the home, your comfort with payment changes, and your financial goals. I work with borrowers every week who discover they qualify for programs they didn't know existed — and it often changes the picture. If you're buying soon, refinancing, or just curious whether your current loan is still the best fit, let's talk through the options available to you.

Reach out anytime — I'm happy to walk through what programs might work best for your goals.

Tip of the Week

Schedule a plumber to inspect older homes for slow leaks — water damage is expensive and often hidden until it's serious.

Tips for Homeowners

Jumbo Loans: What They Are and How They Work

1.

A jumbo loan exceeds the conforming loan limit set by the FHFA — $766,550 in most areas for 2024, higher in designated high-cost markets. These loans can't be sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

2.

Jumbo loans typically require stronger credit (often 700+), larger down payments (10–20%), and more cash reserves. Underwriting is more thorough and can take longer.

3.

Rates on jumbo loans are sometimes comparable to or even lower than conforming rates, depending on market conditions. Don't assume a jumbo loan means a worse deal — shop lenders.

Mortgage News Daily

New home sales fall short in July

After a strong June, new home sales dropped sharply in July as builders faced persistent headwinds from high mortgage rates and affordability challenges. Inventory levels climbed, suggesting builders are moving cautiously despite the slowdown. If you're shopping for a new construction home, this could create more negotiating room in the months ahead.

Key takeaway: A softer new home market may give buyers more leverage on pricing and incentives.
Read full article →

Mortgage News Daily

Pending sales slip again as rates weigh on buyers

Signed contracts on existing homes fell 2.3% in July and hit their lowest level since January 2026, a sign that elevated mortgage rates continue to keep buyers on the sidelines. Prices remain at record highs, making affordability the biggest barrier for most shoppers. This slowdown in pending sales typically shows up in closed sales a month or two later.

Key takeaway: Fewer signed contracts suggest less competition among buyers — a potential opening if you're ready to move.
Read full article →

Mortgage News Daily

Builder confidence remains flat despite slight uptick

Builder sentiment edged up in August, but overall confidence in the new home market is still subdued and has stayed low for 16 consecutive months. Rising construction costs, elevated mortgage rates, and economic uncertainty continue to dampen the outlook. This prolonged caution from builders could eventually mean fewer new homes on the market.

Key takeaway: If you want a new construction home, waiting too long could mean fewer options and less favorable deals.
Read full article →

HousingWire

Reno's housing market outpaces Phoenix, Denver, Austin

While hot markets like Phoenix, Denver, and Austin have cooled significantly year-over-year, Reno is holding its ground with modest gains through July. Regional differences are widening, with some markets staying stronger than others despite national headwinds. If you're considering a move, location matters more than ever right now.

Key takeaway: Your local market's health is just as important as national trends when deciding to buy or refinance.
Read full article →

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Jeff Naylor team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Book a Call

Your Mortgage Advisor

Jeff Naylor

Jeff Naylor

Naylor Home Loans powered by Barrett Financial Group

jeffn@barrettfinancial.com

503-358-6551

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4800 NW Camas Meadows Drive Ste 260, Camas, WA 98607

503-358-6551  |  www.naylorhomeloans.com

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