Freddie Mac (OTCQB: FMCC) today released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey^® (PMMS^®), showing the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.01%.

“Mortgage rates dropped again this week, now down to their lowest level since September of 2022,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist. “This lower rate environment is not only improving affordability for prospective homebuyers, it’s also strengthening the financial position of homeowners. Over the past year, refinance application activity has more than doubled, enabling many recent buyers to reduce their annual mortgage payments by thousands of dollars.”

• The 30-year FRM averaged 6.01% as of February 19, 2026, down from last week when it averaged 6.09%. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.85%.
• The 15-year FRM averaged 5.35%, down from last week when it averaged 5.44%. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 6.04%.

The PMMS^® is focused on conventional, conforming, fully amortizing home purchase loans for borrowers who put 20% down and have excellent credit.

At some point, a house that once felt perfect just… doesn’t anymore.

Maybe you need more space.

Maybe working from home turned your dining room into a permanent office.

Maybe the layout just doesn’t match how you live now.

If your current house is starting to feel like it’s holding you back instead of supporting your life, it’s natural to think about making a move. But that brings up the next big question: once you sell, where do you go?

For a growing number of buyers, the answer is something brand new.

New Construction Is a More Popular Choice Lately

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), more people are buying new homes than they have in years. The latest annual data available shows 16% of homes purchased were newly built.

At first glance you may not see why that’s a big deal. But that’s actually the highest share of new home purchases in almost two decades.

Why More Buyers Are Choosing a Brand-New Construction

For many buyers, especially move-up buyers, new construction isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about lifestyle, convenience, and peace of mind.

1. Everything Is Brand New

You’re not inheriting someone else’s projects. No wondering how old the roof is. No budgeting for a new HVAC right after move-in. No big surprises when the previous owners patch job fails. For move-up buyers who’ve been dumping money into updating their current house, that’s a win.

2. You Can Customize Before Move In

If you choose a home that’s still under construction, you could have the chance to pick the flooring, counters, cabinets, hardware, lighting, and so much more. That level of personalization can be a draw for move-up buyers like you, because it allows you to hand pick the fit and finishes you’ve been wanting for so long.

3. A Home Designed for How People Live Today

Most new construction homes are built to current building standards and buyer preferences, which means you could see built-in smart home features, better energy efficiency (which can lower utility bills), and even more modern floor plans and features. And if your layout just isn’t working for you anymore, you may find exactly what you need now in a new home.

4. Neighborhood Amenities

New developments often include shared community spaces like walking trails, parks, playgrounds, or even pools and gyms. For families and active households, that’s a big bonus to have that just a few steps out of their front door.

5. Builder Incentives

Not to mention, since there are more new homes on the market than the norm, builders are motivated to sell what they have. So, you may find they’re more willing to negotiate than you’d expect on things like price, upgrades, and more.

Bottom Line

If your current house isn’t meeting your needs anymore, don’t assume your only choice is an existing home. New construction is becoming a real contender, especially for move-up buyers who want space, features, and a home that works for how they live now.

Curious whether new construction might be a fit for you? Let’s chat.

Freddie Mac today released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey^® (PMMS^®), showing the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.10%.

“Mortgage rates remain near their lowest levels in three years, which is encouraging for potential homebuyers who have waited to enter the market for some time,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist. “Lower rates, combined with strong income growth, have led to a steady increase in purchase applications compared to last year. We’re also seeing more homeowners refinancing their mortgages to benefit from these lower rates, as shown by the rise in refinance applications over the past year.”

• The 30-year FRM averaged 6.10% as of January 29, 2026, up slightly from last week when it averaged 6.09%. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.95%.
• The 15-year FRM averaged 5.49%, up from last week when it averaged 5.44%. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 6.12%.

The PMMS^® is focused on conventional, conforming, fully amortizing home purchase loans for borrowers who put 20% down and have excellent credit.