Mortgage rates have officially dipped below 6% — and for the first time in years, the shift is already being felt across the local market.

Late last week marked the first sub-6% mortgage rates we’ve seen since 2022. Almost immediately, buyer behavior began to change.

Over the weekend, I toured homes with multiple buyers across a wide range of price points — from $800,000 to over $2,500,000. One thing was consistent everywhere we went: open houses were active. Not casual foot traffic, but real conversations with serious, prepared buyers.

After years of hesitation, this felt different.

The Sidelines Are Clearing Across Boston and the South Shore

There has been a sizable group of buyers who never truly left the market — they were simply waiting.

Waiting for:

• Rate stability

• A clearer economic signal

• Confidence to return

This recent rate movement may be one of those signals.

While one dip below 6% doesn’t instantly transform the market, it does suggest that 2026 could become meaningfully more active than the past two years. Historically, once confidence starts to return, momentum often follows.

That’s exactly what we’re beginning to see across Boston, the South Shore, and Greater Boston suburbs.

What This Shift Means for Buyers

Buyers stand to benefit — but preparation is critical.

As rates ease and confidence builds, competition tends to increase quickly. Buyers who wait to react often find themselves facing multiple offers, tighter timelines, and less negotiating leverage.

Right now, buyers should be:

• Clarifying financing and rate options

• Understanding realistic price ranges

• Refining search criteria and location priorities

• Developing a competitive offer strategy

Being prepared before competition spikes can make the difference between winning and missing out.

What This Shift Means for Sellers

Sellers who prepare early have the advantage.

As buyer activity increases, sellers who are positioned properly gain more control over:

• Pricing strategy

• Presentation and condition

• Launch timing

• Negotiation leverage

Instead of reacting to market pressure later, proactive sellers can capitalize on renewed demand — particularly in desirable Boston, South Shore, Cape Cod, and Hingham neighborhoods.

The most successful sales are rarely accidental. They’re planned.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Market

It’s still early, but there are real reasons for cautious optimism.

Mortgage rates moving below 6% may signal a broader shift in buyer confidence — and confidence is what drives real estate markets forward. We’ll continue monitoring how this trend unfolds and share data-backed updates as the market reveals more.

If you’re considering buying or selling in 2026 — or simply want to understand how this shift impacts your specific situation — I’m always available as a resource.

More to come soon.

FAQ

Are mortgage rates really below 6% now?
Yes. Late 2025 and early 2026 marked the first time rates dipped below 6% since 2022, signaling renewed buyer confidence.

Does a drop below 6% mean the market will heat up quickly?
Not overnight — but historically, lower rates increase buyer activity and competition over time.

Is now a good time to sell in Boston or the South Shore?
Early signs suggest sellers who prepare now may benefit as buyer demand increases through 2026.

Should buyers wait for rates to drop further?
Waiting carries risk. As rates fall, competition often increases, which can offset affordability gains.