The 2026 Interest Rate Outlook: Higher, Lower, or the New Normal - with Matthew Scout

Описание: In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, host Cleve Gaddis and mortgage expert Matthew Scout, Vice President and Executive Mortgage Loan Originator with Southeast Mortgage, dive into the critical questions every buyer, seller, and homeowner should be asking as we navigate the 2026 real estate market.

From the future of interest rates to the surprising "Get Ready Guarantee," this segment is packed with actionable insights to help you make informed decisions for your biggest investment.

1. 2026 Interest Rate Outlook: Higher, Lower, or the Same?
The big question on everyone’s mind: what will happen to mortgage rates in 2026?. Matthew Scout breaks down:

The "Two Camps" of Thought: Some believe rates will drop significantly, while others expect them to stabilize at current levels.

Historical Context: Why 5-6% rates are actually "decent" when compared to the 50-year average of roughly 8%.

The Fed & Quantitative Easing: How government bond-buying and a new Fed Chair could impact the market.

The Key Indicator: Why the yield on the 10-year Treasury Bill is the #1 number to watch for mortgage rate trends.

2. Is it Getting Easier to Get a Mortgage?
Surprisingly, it might be. We discuss:

The Role of AI: How artificial intelligence is streamlining the underwriting process and making it easier to buy a home.

The "Enough" Factor: Why even a small drop in rates (from 8% to the mid-6s) was enough to get buyers back into the market.

Government Loans: Insights into FHA and VA rates, which recently saw locks as low as 5.25%.

3. Avoiding Mortgage Pitfalls: Primary Residence vs. Second Homes
A simple misunderstanding in the underwriting process can derail a loan. Cleve and Matthew explain:

Occupancy Rules: Why you must be able to realistically travel from your home to your job to qualify for primary residence rates.

The Cost of "Second Homes": Expect higher interest rates or higher costs for any property not considered a primary residence.

Transparency is Key: Why giving your loan officer "too much" information is the best way to ensure a smooth closing.

4. Strategy for Success: The "Get Ready Guarantee"
Don't wait until you're ready to buy to start the process. Matthew outlines a 30-minute plan:

Spend 20-30 minutes on the phone now to receive a written report within 24 hours.

Learn exactly what you need to do to be in the "best shape possible" when you're ready to secure a mortgage.

At Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, our mission is to help you become a confident, informed homeowner so you never learn something after closing that you should’ve known before.

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Connect with Matthew Scout, Southeast Mortgage: 📞 Cell: 480-636-6762 📧 Email: [email protected]

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To buy or sell your home, check out our sponsor Modern Traditions Realty Group: https://moderntraditionsrealty.net/home