I've been tracking the Freddie Mac PMMS data and MBA application shares for 2026, and I wanted to share a clean snapshot with the BiggerPockets community.

**Current Market Data (24 Sep 2026):**

• 30-Year Fixed: 7.03%

• 15-Year Fixed: 6.42%

• Refinance Share: 39.3%

• ARM Share: 9.8%

• FHA Share: 16.7%

• VA Share: 12.0%

• USDA Share: 0.6%

**What This Means for Investors:**

**1. Refinance Activity is High (39.3%)**

A large share of applications are refinances. This means investors are actively looking to lower their payments or pull cash out. If you're sitting on a high-rate loan, now is the time to run the break-even numbers.

**2. ARM Share is Rising (9.8%)**

More buyers are using Adjustable-Rate Mortgages. This can be a smart strategy for short-term holds (BRRRR, fix-and-flip), but it carries risk if you plan to hold long-term.

**3. FHA and VA Shares are Significant**

FHA (16.7%) and VA (12.0%) still make up a large portion of the market. For house hackers, these are the best tools for low down payments.

**4. Median Purchase Payment: $2,162/month**

According to the MBA, the median mortgage payment for purchase applicants in August 2026 was $2,162. If your PITI is significantly higher, you're above the median.

**Why This Matters for Your Deals:**

When you're analyzing a deal, you need to know the current rate environment. A 7.03% rate on a $400,000 loan means a P&I of $2,670. Add taxes, insurance, and PMI, and you're at $3,400+.

**My Advice:**

• If you're buying, lock in a rate and run the full PITI.

• If you're refinancing, calculate the break-even point (cost ÷ monthly savings).

• If you're holding, consider whether an ARM or fixed rate fits your strategy.

I built a free calculator that shows the full PITI, break-even point, and amortization schedule: https://smartmortgagecalc.space

It's updated with 2026 rates and includes all the costs investors need (taxes, insurance, PMI, HOA). No sign-up required.

What rates are you seeing in your market?