Fannie Mae Forecasts Rate Declines, Mortgage Demand Trends, and NAR’s Economic Outlook

As we move through June, the housing and mortgage markets are revealing encouraging signs. Fannie Mae’s updated forecast points to a potential decline in mortgage rates next year, mortgage demand is shifting but stable, and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) is highlighting the impact of economic policy on affordability. Understanding these dynamics helps mortgage professionals and real estate agents guide clients with clarity and confidence.


Fannie Mae Predicts Mortgage Rates Will Dip Below 6% Next Year

Read the full story → TheStreet

Fannie Mae anticipates mortgage rates will drop below 6% in 2026, a welcome projection that could open the door for more buyers. This outlook aligns with improving inflation metrics and broader expectations for monetary easing in the year ahead. While not an immediate shift, the forecast sets the stage for renewed affordability and a more energized housing market in the near future.

Loan Officer Insight: Now is a good time to educate your clients on the timing and benefits of preparing for lower rates. Consider helping clients explore refinancing scenarios or pre-approval strategies to position themselves well ahead of potential changes.

Realtor Insight: Let your buyers know that improved affordability is on the horizon. While some may want to act now, others may benefit from planning their moves based on next year’s rate outlook.


Mortgage Demand Declines for Third Consecutive Week

Read the full story → CNBC

Mortgage application volume dropped again last week, led by reduced refinance activity. Home purchase demand was also slightly down, though it remains seasonally strong. Industry analysts suggest that while some buyers are holding back due to current rates, broader economic optimism could drive more activity once rates show sustained movement downward.

Loan Officer Insight: Treat this as an opportunity to deepen conversations with prospects. A brief dip in activity offers space to build trust, educate on loan readiness, and strengthen long-term relationships.

Realtor Insight: Use this moment to coach your buyers on being fully prepared. With competition cooling slightly in some markets, it’s an excellent time to encourage pre-approvals and informed decision-making.


NAR Chief Economist Cites Fed Rate Cuts as a Catalyst for Market Rebound

Read the full story → Scotsman Guide

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun reiterated that a rate cut by the Federal Reserve could be the “magic bullet” to reduce mortgage rates and energize the market. With inflation softening and economic fundamentals holding steady, a Fed policy shift could stimulate both sales volume and affordability by the end of the year.

Loan Officer Insight: Help your clients stay forward-looking. Whether purchasing, investing, or refinancing, informed clients make better decisions—and now is the time to share what’s ahead.

Realtor Insight: Make sure your buyers and sellers understand how rate movement affects their plans. When the Fed adjusts policy, the ripple effect is often quick—prepare your clients now.


Loan Officer’s Perspective: Strategic Actions

  • Educate your clients on what Fannie Mae’s forecast means for affordability next year.
  • Use the slower mortgage demand trend as a chance to deepen relationships.
  • Share how potential Fed action could positively impact buyer activity.

For additional resources and strategies to support your referral partners and clients effectively, visit DailySuccessPlan.com.


Realtor’s Perspective: Strategic Actions

  • Help your buyers plan for both now and later—especially with rate forecasts improving.
  • Use temporary slowdowns in mortgage demand to encourage buyer readiness.
  • Keep clients informed on broader economic signals like Fed policy and inflation trends.

📩 Ready-to-Send Emails for Outreach

Below are two prewritten emails you can copy and paste to help you stay in front of your network. One is designed for loan officers to send to real estate partners and clients, and the other is for realtors to send to their buyer and seller clients.
Use these messages to share helpful market updates, offer support, and stay top of mind in a professional, value-driven way.

Email for Loan Officers

Subject: Encouraging News on Mortgage Rates and Market Trends

Hi [First Name],

I wanted to share a few quick updates from today’s housing and mortgage news:

  • Fannie Mae now expects mortgage rates to fall below 6% in 2026. This could dramatically improve affordability and increase buyer confidence as we head into next year.
  • NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun says a single Federal Reserve rate cut could be the “magic bullet” to bring mortgage rates down even sooner—especially if inflation continues to ease.
  • While mortgage demand declined for the third week in a row, much of it is due to seasonal shifts and rate sensitivity—not a lack of interest. This lull could create opportunities for well-prepared buyers.

If you’d like help preparing clients for what’s ahead or want to discuss strategies that align with this outlook, let’s connect.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Info]


Email for Realtors

Subject: What’s Ahead for Rates and the Housing Market

Hi [First Name],

I wanted to share a few quick updates from today’s housing and mortgage news:

  • Fannie Mae is forecasting that mortgage rates could dip below 6% by 2026. That means buyers might see stronger purchasing power on the horizon.
  • NAR’s chief economist believes a Fed interest rate cut could come sooner and would likely lead to a significant improvement in affordability.
  • Mortgage application activity has slowed, which may create a brief window for buyers to face less competition—especially as inventory grows.

If you or someone you know is thinking about making a move this year or next, I’d be happy to share more details or help explore options.

Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Info]