Mortgage Rates Steady at 6.81% Amid Economic Uncertainty
Read the full story → Mortgage News Daily
Mortgage rates remained unchanged on April 30, 2025, with the average 30-year fixed rate holding at 6.81%. This consistency offers a brief window of predictability for loan officers and homebuyers alike. The flat rate movement comes as markets digest weakening GDP data and shifting bond yields.
Recent economic reports show U.S. GDP shrank by 0.3% in Q1 2025, raising the possibility of a mild recession. At the same time, Treasury yields declined, with the 10-year yield hovering near 4.45%, reflecting expectations of eventual Federal Reserve easing later this year. Inflation remains above target but is showing mixed signals.
Loan Officer Takeaway: Now is the time to reach out to fence-sitting buyers. Use the stable rate environment to emphasize the predictability of locking in terms. Help clients run the numbers and make affordability-driven decisions.
Treasury Secretary Urges Fed to Cut Rates as Growth Slows
Read the full story → CNBC
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has called for the Federal Reserve to reduce interest rates, citing an inverted yield curve as a red flag for future economic weakness. Two-year Treasury yields have dipped below the Fed Funds Rate, a historical recession signal.
This public pressure marks a growing divergence between fiscal and monetary leadership. While the Fed remains cautious due to persistent inflation near 3%, fiscal officials are warning that the economy cannot sustain higher borrowing costs amid sluggish growth.
Loan Officer Insight: If rate cuts do materialize, mortgage rates could follow. Get ahead by preparing refinance lists and coaching clients on rate lock strategies tailored to their timelines. Position yourself as a steady hand during a potentially volatile summer.
MRED Updates Private Listing Network in Response to NAR Rule Change
Read the full story → Chicago Agent Magazine
Midwest Real Estate Data (MRED) has enhanced its Private Listing Network (PLN) following recent updates to NAR’s Clear Cooperation Policy. The revisions allow agents to maintain listings privately for limited periods before public marketing, provided there’s informed seller consent.
This move gives sellers more discretion over when and how their property is marketed. It also gives agents and lenders early visibility into homes that are not yet listed publicly. MRED’s PLN is one of the most developed systems of its kind, and these changes further legitimize its use for strategic selling.
Loan Officer Takeaway: Proactively build relationships with agents using private listing tools. Offer pre-approvals for buyers looking in competitive markets and help your partners navigate inventory that’s not yet public. This is your edge.
Real Estate-Related Stock Performance (as of April 30, 2025)
- Rocket Companies (RKT): $12.37 ▲ 0.4%
- UWM Holdings (UWMC): $4.60 ▼ 0.3%
- Zillow Group (ZG): $62.89 ▲ 0.1%
- Redfin Corp (RDFN): $8.98 ▼ 0.4%
- Lennar Corp (LEN): $106.72 ▲ 0.6%
- D.R. Horton (DHI): $123.10 ▲ 0.4%
- Equifax Inc. (EFX): $252.04 ▲ 0.2%
Builder stocks posted modest gains thanks to ongoing strength in new construction activity. Mortgage lenders remain rangebound as the market awaits Fed direction. Stock movements reflect overall market caution.
Loan Officer’s Perspective: Practical Applications for May
- Capitalize on Rate Stability: Reach out with updated payment scenarios for buyers waiting for lower rates. Locking today could still mean long-term savings.
- Refi Radar: Start compiling a list of clients from Q3/Q4 2022 who may benefit from a summer refinance if rates dip.
- Agent Collaboration: Explore new private listing strategies. Offer early pre-approvals and help agents position buyers ahead of public listings.
- Educate with Clarity: As rate chatter increases, be the voice of logic. Avoid predictions—emphasize preparation.
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