Rates Hold Near Recent Levels as Florida Heads Into Peak Spring Activity

The Big Picture — Mortgage Rates This Week

Mortgage rates remained above the 6% level this week, with modest movement but no major shift. The average fixed rate 3o-year is at 6.38 up from 6 at the beginning of the conflict.

After dipping earlier in the month and then edging slightly higher, rates are now settling into a narrow, somewhat choppy range. That tells us the bond market is still trying to balance:

• Inflation that remains above target
• Slowing but stable economic growth
• Ongoing uncertainty in global markets

The result is what we’re seeing now — rates moving sideways more than trending in one direction.

That may not feel exciting, but it’s actually constructive. Stability gives both buyers and sellers the ability to plan.

Why This Matters Right Now

The expectation coming into the year was that rates might fall steadily into the 5’s. Instead, what we’re seeing is a step-down, then sideways pattern. Depending on the duration of the war, we could get back on the path of the 5’s if and when oil prices fall. But don’t wait.

What I mean by that is, if your transaction works for you, don’t wait for the rates to go down. As we know, the world is an uncertain place, and it could go up. And there are tools you can utilize with a mortgage broker, like 2/1 rate buy-downs, and if the rates fall, you get the benefit on the downward adjustment. *

• It reduces the risk of waiting endlessly for “perfect” timing
• It puts more emphasis on affordability and structure
• It rewards prepared buyers who can act when opportunity shows up

Adjustable-rate options continue to price below many fixed-rate structures, which can be useful for borrowers with shorter time horizons.

Florida Housing Market — Spring Is Here

Spring activity is clearly building across Florida.

We are seeing:

• Increased new listings hitting the market
• More showings and buyer traffic
• Continued negotiation on price and terms
• More seller credits and rate buydowns

Inventory is still higher than it was in the tightest years, but in some areas it is beginning to stabilize rather than expand rapidly.

This creates a window where:

  • Buyers still have leverage
  • But competition is starting to pick up

South Florida Snapshot

Palm Beach County

Activity continues to improve, especially in the mid-range price points. Buyers remain focused on total payment, including insurance and taxes.

Broward County

Condo inventory remains elevated, but well-priced units are moving. Financing and association reviews are playing a larger role in transaction timelines.

Miami-Dade County

Luxury properties are still taking longer to sell, but demand remains present. Pricing sensitivity continues to be a key factor.

Florida Economic Reality

Florida’s core drivers remain intact:

• Continued migration from higher-cost states
• Strong tourism and service economy
• Ongoing job growth

At the same time:

• Insurance costs remain a major concern
• Property taxes are rising in some areas
• Cost-of-living pressures continue to shape buyer behavior

The result is a more payment-focused buyer.

What It Means for Buyers

• Rates are stable enough to make informed decisions
• Inventory still provides negotiating leverage
• Spring competition is increasing
• Seller concessions are still available — but may narrow

If you financed between 2022 and 2025, it is still a good time to evaluate whether your current loan structure fits your goals.

What It Means for Sellers

• Pricing correctly remains critical
• Buyer traffic is improving as we enter spring
• Well-prepared homes are moving
• Flexibility can still help secure stronger contracts

Bottom Line

This is not a market waiting for a signal.

It is a market that is already in motion.

Mortgage rates near 6%, improving spring activity, and steady buyer demand are creating a more competitive but still negotiable environment.

Talk strategy anytime at MortgageSimplified.net
solutions@mortgagesimplified.net

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