Mortgage Rates Tick Down Slightly – Experts Predict Modest Relief Ahead
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has dipped to 6.64%, marking its lowest point since November 2024, according to Freddie Mac. This is the ninth consecutive week that rates have remained under 7%—a stretch that’s slowly re-energizing the market.
Key insights from mortgage experts:
- Greg McBride (Bankrate): Expects rates to stay in the 6.5%–7% range unless economic indicators shift significantly.
- Kara Ng (Zillow): Predicts mid-6% rates through the remainder of 2025, with early buying activity already increasing.
- Lawrence Yun (NAR): Encourages buyers to act now, noting the current dip is the lowest in months. Warns of volatility due to GSE reform chatter.
- Holden Lewis (NerdWallet): Believes that any rate cooling may be reversed if inflation is re-ignited by trade policy or supply chain issues.
The bottom line: rates may not plummet, but modest decreases are adding momentum in both the purchase and refinance markets.
Read the full MarketWatch article →
Fannie Mae Fires Over 100 Employees for Ethical Violations
Fannie Mae has confirmed the termination of over 100 employees following an internal investigation into unethical behavior, including cases of fraud and conduct violations. While the full details have not been disclosed, the firings reflect a firm stance from leadership on restoring integrity within the government-sponsored enterprise.
The development comes as pressure grows around the role of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in the housing finance system. Although operations are continuing as normal, loan officers should watch for further updates tied to regulatory or structural reforms.
Is a New Real Estate Juggernaut Is Forming?
In March 2025, Rocket Companies, the parent company of Rocket Mortgage, announced significant acquisitions aimed at expanding its footprint in the real estate and mortgage sectors. These strategic moves include plans to acquire Redfin, a digital real estate brokerage, for $1.75 billion, and Mr. Cooper Group, the nation’s largest mortgage servicer, for $9.4 billion.
Understanding the Acquisitions
The acquisition of Redfin is designed to integrate Rocket’s mortgage services with Redfin’s real estate platform, creating a seamless home-buying experience. Varun Krishna, CEO of Rocket Companies, emphasized that this move aligns with their goal of building an integrated platform encompassing home search and mortgage origination.
Similarly, the purchase of Mr. Cooper Group aims to bolster Rocket’s mortgage servicing capabilities. This merger will result in a combined servicing portfolio of over $2.1 trillion, representing approximately one in six mortgages in the United States. The integration is expected to generate annual synergies of around $500 million through increased revenue and cost savings.
Market Share Considerations
While these acquisitions significantly enhance Rocket’s market presence, it’s essential to contextualize their impact:
- Mortgage Origination: In 2024, Rocket Mortgage originated $101 billion in loans, while Mr. Cooper originated $22.8 billion. Even combined, this total remains below United Wholesale Mortgage’s $139 billion in originations during the same period.
- Mortgage Servicing: Post-acquisition, Rocket will service approximately $2.1 trillion in mortgages. However, this still accounts for only about 16% of the total U.S. mortgage market, indicating that a substantial portion remains serviced by other entities.
Implications for Loan Officers
The consolidation of services under Rocket Companies may raise concerns among independent loan officers about increased competition from a vertically integrated giant. However, several factors suggest that the impact may be less disruptive than feared:
- Market Fragmentation: The real estate and mortgage industries remain highly fragmented, with numerous players and localized dynamics. Rocket’s expanded platform represents a significant entity but does not dominate the entire market.
- Consumer Preferences: Many homebuyers value personalized service and local expertise, areas where independent loan officers excel. Building strong relationships within local communities can provide a competitive edge that large, centralized platforms may lack.
- Adaptation and Differentiation: Independent loan officers have the opportunity to differentiate themselves by offering tailored solutions, exceptional customer service, and leveraging local market knowledge. Emphasizing these strengths can help maintain and even grow market share despite the entrance of larger competitors.
Conclusion
While Rocket Companies’ acquisitions of Redfin and Mr. Cooper represent notable shifts in the real estate and mortgage landscape, they do not signal an immediate or overwhelming threat to independent loan officers. By focusing on personalized service, local expertise, and adaptability, loan officers can continue to thrive and meet the diverse needs of homebuyers.
Real Estate-Related Stock Performance (as of April 10, 2025)
- Rocket Companies (RKT): $11.85 ▲ 1.3%
- United Wholesale Mortgage (UWMC): $6.42 ▲ 0.9%
- Zillow Group (ZG): $49.10 ▲ 0.7%
- Lennar Corp (LEN): $106.20 ▲ 0.7%
- D.R. Horton (DHI): $93.00 ▲ 0.8%
Investors are responding favorably to rate relief and early signs of a more active spring market.
From the Loan Officer’s Perspective: Thursday = Preapproved and Looking
There’s a lot happening—rates dipping, GSE leadership shakeups, and major tech shifts. But through it all, your power lies in action.
It’s Thursday, which means your focus is on your preapproved and actively shopping clients. These borrowers are the most likely to fund in the next 30 to 60 days—but only if you stay in touch.
If you’re unsure who to call or what to say, connect with the Mortgage Marketing Animals. Their Daily Success Plan and proven scripts will keep your activity high and your pipeline full.
Need some help with call reluctance and building confidence to make your call? We’ve got you covered. Grab a free consultation with our team. CLICK HERE.
Markets shift. Conditions change. But consistency always wins.