Pfaehler Real Estate

Myth vs. Reality: Does the Fed Control Mortgage Rates?

The Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates, but its hikes can keep them higher for a while. The goal is to bring inflation, and eventually rates, down over time. With more hikes likely this year, waiting may not pay off. So, let's map out a plan that works at today's rates.

Myth vs. Reality: Does the Fed Control Mortgage Rates? You've probably heard the Federal Reserve (the Fed) is raising rates again. And if you're planning to buy or sell a house, you may be wondering what that means for you.

Does one size ever really fit all? One mortgage rate doesn't either.

You may be seeing today’s higher rates and worrying about whether it’s still worth it to buy. Here’s what you need to realize…

Mortgage rates differ just like the people who apply for loans. So, the rate you see online isn’t necessarily the one you’d get when you buy.

Your real mortgage rate is specific to your individual situation. It can be higher or lower than what you've seen or heard.

So, don’t assume the rate in the headlines is your rate. Before you decide you can't buy a home or that you should wait, find out what your real rate is. You'll know what your options are and get a map to what's possible.

And a quick conversation with a loan officer is the perfect place to start.

What Higher Mortgage Rates Mean for Home Sellers

Higher mortgage rates are making buyers more cost-conscious. Builders know that, and many are responding with reduced rate, closing-cost help, price reductions, and other incentives.
If you're thinking about selling, let's look at what buyers are getting from other homes in our area – including new construction – and make sure your house is positioned to compete.

What Higher Mortgage Rates Mean for Home Sellers Higher mortgage rates don't just affect buyers. They can change what it takes to sell your house, too.

Not sure where to start if you’re thinking about moving? You’re not alone.

Right now, there are actually 4 different housing markets running at once, and each one plays by its own rules.

Cash buyers. Buyers taking out a mortgage. Homeowners feeling reluctant to give up their current low rate. And builders eager to sell their extra inventory.

Which group you fall in can completely change how you should approach your move. But that’s where an agent comes in.

We have the expertise on what to do for your specific situation and the strategies that are going to work for you.

Comment below and tell me which group you’re in. Let's figure out your next move from there.

Price cuts have climbed for 7 straight months.

Right now, more than 4 in 10 homes for sale have already had one, and it usually comes down to one thing – the market's moving faster than most sellers expected and their pricing hasn’t necessarily kept up.

A home that needs a cut usually just sat too long priced above what buyers will actually pay right now.

Selling soon? Let's set your number right from day one, so you skip that wasted time.

House hunting? A home that's had its price reduced means the seller's already been through that wait. And sellers who've been sitting are usually ready to deal.

Why So Many Sellers Are Cutting Their Price Right Now

Price cuts are a normal part of today’s housing market, and both buyers and sellers can use them to their advantage. Let's look at what's actually happening with prices in your neighborhood, so you know exactly where you stand before you list or make an offer.

Why So Many Sellers Are Cutting Their Price Right Now Price cuts are turning up everywhere right now, and they read very differently depending on which side of the deal you’re on.

3 Things You Can Actually Control About Your Mortgage Rate Right Now

You can't control where mortgage rates go, but you can control your credit, your loan, and the kind of home you buy. Working with a trusted lender can help you lock in the best rate you qualify for. And when you’re ready to make a move that fits your budget, let’s connect.

3 Things You Can Actually Control About Your Mortgage Rate Right Now If you're trying to buy a home, affordability is probably what keeps you up at night.

Selling This Fall? You Want To Get These 4 Things Right.

Selling this fall is absolutely doable. And now you know four of the biggest things to get right.

If you want to sell before the end of the year, let’s make sure you have a winning strategy from day one.

Selling This Fall? You Want To Get These 4 Things Right. Selling your house this fall is absolutely doable. But there’s something you need to know about this time of year.

The Best Time To Buy a Home in 2026 Is Almost Here

If you want to buy a house this year, there’s still a way to make it happen, even with today’s rates. This fall gives you the chance to get some of the best seasonal perks the market has to offer.

Want help figuring out when those advantages typically show up in our market?

Let's have a quick conversation about how our market works and the steps you’ll need to take to get ready.

The Best Time To Buy a Home in 2026 Is Almost Here Want to buy a house this year, but not sure if the timing’s right? Seasonally, it may actually be a better time to buy than you expect.