mortgage market

US 10-year Treasury yields have climbed to 5.10%, the highest level since July 2007, with 30-year yields reaching 5%, marking multi-decade highs. The surge follows a strong jobs report that has raised expectations the Federal Reserve may hike interest rates again. Investors are weighing what elevated borrowing costs mean for markets, mortgages and the wider economy.

Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Michele Bullock says the days of low interest rates are gone, signalling that borrowing costs are likely to stay elevated for the foreseeable future. The warning matters for Australian households and businesses still adjusting to higher mortgage repayments, and it has drawn wide attention as people weigh what a permanently higher rate environment means for housing and the wider economy.

Mortgage rates in the United States have returned to 7%, renewing concern about the housing market's direction. The Wall Street Journal examines what the rise means for buyers, sellers and home prices. Higher borrowing costs are expected to further strain affordability, and many are debating whether rates will stay elevated or ease in the months ahead.

Housing conditions are shifting in favor of buyers as inventory grows and sellers lose some leverage, yet consumers say prices and affordability still do not feel favorable. The gap between market data and buyer experience is the focus of new commentary, with observers noting that improvements on paper have yet to translate into relief for shoppers, who remain cautious amid elevated mortgage rates and still-high home prices.

Berkshire Hathaway has raised its stake in homebuilder Lennar, according to a report by GuruFocus. The move comes as the US housing market draws renewed attention, and investors are weighing whether Warren Buffett's increased position signals confidence in homebuilders despite elevated mortgage rates and uncertain housing conditions. Lennar is one of the largest homebuilders in the United States.

Commentary is making the case that a 7.5% mortgage rate in today's market is far less punishing than the 18% rates US homebuyers faced in the early 1980s. The argument turns on home prices relative to incomes: rates are high now, but loan balances are many times larger, so the monthly payment burden can be comparable or worse. Readers are debating whether comparisons between the two eras of high rates actually hold up.

US mortgage rates climbed for a third consecutive day as of September 26, adding to the financial pressure on homebuyers and those looking to refinance. Borrowers face higher monthly costs as lenders adjust pricing upward, and market watchers are keeping an eye on whether the upward trend will continue into October.

The Central Bank of Kenya reports that mortgage loans have reached Ksh307 billion, with the average mortgage rising to about Ksh10 million. The figures point to continued growth in Kenya's housing finance market, but also highlight affordability pressures as borrowing sizes climb, a topic drawing attention from homebuyers, lenders and property analysts.

The US Federal Reserve has raised interest rates for the first time since 2023, according to ABC News. A rate hike would mark a reversal from the easing cycle of recent years and would affect borrowing costs for mortgages, credit cards and businesses across the American economy. Markets and households will be watching for signals on whether further increases are planned.

FedWatch strategist Ben Emons predicts the 10-year Treasury yield could reach 6% by January 2027. He warns that rates at that level would squeeze the housing market and slow the broader US economy. The forecast is drawing attention among investors weighing how long yields may stay elevated and what it means for mortgages and growth.