President Trump’s directive to lower interest rates helped spur a tightening in mortgage spreads, but economists are skeptical of the long-term impact of the move involving GSE purchases of MBS.

The executive order seeks to limit institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, but some market participants believe it would do little to boost housing affordability nationally.

Housing experts expect the market to undergo a course correction after years of rapid home price increases.

Homebuilders used price reductions and buydowns to drive sales and pull buyers off the sidelines in 2025.

Home insurance premiums are rising at a slower pace, but affordability challenges still remain an issue for homebuyers.

Housing affordability has improved due to slowing home price appreciation and growing inventory but it is still lagging historical levels.

Lenders urged the regulator to spell out the GSEs’ conservatorship-era obligations that could apply even if Fannie and Freddie are released.

Cross-industry coordination will be key to increasing housing affordability, according to industry participants.

The new requirements, and the shutdown, are expected to further delay the release of CDFI Fund awards that have already been approved.

Housing legislation with strong bipartisan support could move forward in the Senate as soon as this month.