2026 Mortgage Update

For the past two years, the real estate market in Calabasas and Hidden Hills felt like it was holding its breath. High interest rates created a "lock-in effect" where homeowners wouldn't sell and buyers couldn't afford to jump in.

But as of February 2026, the air is finally clearing. With the 30-year fixed rate hovering around 6.09% to 6.11%, we have officially entered "The Unlock."

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to stop renting or to finally upgrade your square footage, here is why the current 6% threshold is the green light you’ve been looking for.

1. The Math: Purchasing Power has Rebounded

Let’s look at the numbers. Just a year ago, rates were scraping 7%. On a typical $1.5M home in the Valley with 20% down, that 1% difference isn’t just pocket change—it’s roughly $800 to $900 a month in savings.

Over the life of a 30-year loan, that’s nearly $300,000 staying in your pocket instead of going to the bank.

Key Takeaway: You don't need 3% rates to make a move work. 6% represents a return to "historical normalcy" that allows for stable, long-term wealth building.

2. The "Lock-in Effect" is Thawing

One of the biggest frustrations for buyers in 2024 and 2025 was the lack of inventory. Why would a seller leave their 3.5% mortgage for an 8% one?

Now that rates have settled near 6%, that "gap" has narrowed significantly. We are seeing an 8.9% increase in active listings across LA County compared to this time last year. For you, this means:

• More Choice: You aren't forced to settle for the only house on the block.

• Return of Contingencies: In a 6% market, "subject to inspection" is standard again. You have the right to do your due diligence.

3. Don't Wait for 5% (Here’s Why)

I often hear, "Yoav, I'll wait until they hit 5.5%." Here is the danger in that strategy: Competition.

The moment rates dip significantly further, the "sidelined" buyers—estimated at over 5 million households nationally—will rush back in. This surge in demand inevitably drives home prices up.

• The 2026 Strategy: "Marry the house, date the rate." Buy now while you have negotiation leverage and inventory options. If rates hit 5% in 2027, you can refinance. You can't "refinance" a higher purchase price if you get into a bidding war later.

4. Expert Guidance in a Shifting Landscape

With my background in home loans and title, I help my clients look beyond the headline rate. Whether it's exploring seller buy-downs (where the seller pays to lower your interest rate for the first few years) or identifying jumbo loan opportunities that often beat national averages, we find the path that fits your specific balance sheet.

The Bottom Line: The "wait and see" era of 2024 is over. 2026 is about stability, strategy, and finally making that move.

Want to see what your new monthly payment would look like at today’s rates? Reach out for a personalized mortgage impact report.