More Inventory. More Buyer Assistance. More Opportunity?

May 18, 2026 | Kevin Brierton Team | , ,

Inside lending for the week of May 18, 2026

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“The road to success is always under construction.” — Lily Tomlin, American actress, comedian, writer

NATIONAL MARKET UPDATE

New listing activity continued to outpace last year’s levels, while active inventory remained above 2025 totals. Buyers are seeing more choices moving into summer as sellers gradually reengage with the market.

Asking prices declined year over year for the 17th consecutive week, reflecting a continued shift toward more competitive seller pricing. Homes are still moving close to last year’s pace, helping keep the market balanced.

Affordability conditions are showing modest improvement as inventory builds and financing support expands. DPA programs also reached a new high this quarter, creating additional opportunities for buyers navigating elevated housing costs.

REVIEW OF LAST WEEK

RALLY HOLDS STEADY…Stocks remained near record highs last week as investors continued focusing on resilient economic data, improving earnings expectations, and signs of stability in energy markets.

Bond yields climbed to their highest levels in months as investors reacted to persistent inflation pressures, elevated energy prices, and growing concerns that rates could remain higher for longer.

The economy continues to show resilience. Buyer activity has remained steady, businesses are still investing, and housing supply improvements are creating better opportunities across many markets.

The week ended with the Dow down 1.5%, to 49,526, the S&P 500 down 1.0%, to 7,409, and the Nasdaq down 0.1%, to 26,225.

Bond markets faced renewed pressure as inflation concerns and elevated oil prices pushed Treasury yields higher. Mortgage rates moved sharply upward late in the week, reflecting growing investor concern around persistent inflation and global uncertainty.

DID YOU KNOW…There are now more than 2,600 down payment assistance programs available nationwide, helping expand affordability options for first-time and entry-level buyers.

THIS WEEK’S FORECAST

HOME SALES, PMI, RATE OUTLOOK…Markets will focus on housing activity data and business sentiment reports for signs of economic momentum and consumer demand. Existing home sales and PMI readings will help shape expectations for both growth and interest rates. While inflation remains elevated, improving housing inventory and stable labor conditions continue supporting the broader market. Investors will also monitor whether mortgage rates remain contained as the spring season progresses.

FEDERAL RESERVE WATCH

Forecasting Federal Reserve policy changes in coming months. Markets currently expect policymakers to remain on hold while evaluating inflation trends, labor market conditions, and broader economic resilience. Officials are likely to maintain a cautious stance as they assess whether inflation pressures begin easing later this year. Note: In the lower chart, the 0.7% probability of change means there’s a 99.3% probability the rate will stay the same. Current rate is 3.50%–3.75%.

AFTER FOMC MEETING ON: CONSENSUS

Jun 17th = 3.50%-3.75%

Jun 29th = 3.50%-3.75%

Sep 16th = 3.50%-3.75%

Probability of change from current policy:

AFTER FOMC MEETING ON: CONSENSUS

Jun 17th = 0.7%

Jun 29th = 4.2%

Sep 16th = 15.8%

BUSINESS TIP OF THE WEEK

Take five. Your ideas and creativity will flow much more freely if you give yourself a change of pace. Take a walk or go sit in the fresh air with a cup of coffee instead of sitting at your desk waiting for inspiration.

This market is creating opportunities—but you need the right strategy to take advantage of them.

With more inventory, expanding down payment assistance programs, and shifting affordability conditions, now is a great time to review your options and create a plan before the market changes again.

A Mortgage Strategy Call can help you understand:

  • Your buying power in today’s market
  • available down payment assistance options
  • strategies to manage payment and rate volatility
  • refinance opportunities
  • and how to position yourself for long-term financial success

No pressure. No obligation. Just a clear game plan tailored to your goals.

👉 Schedule your Mortgage Strategy Call here: https://www.kevinbrierton.com/call

The buyers who win in shifting markets are usually the ones who prepare early.