13 Feb York & Lancaster Housing Update: Rates + 6 Things That Changed This Week
If you’ve been watching the housing market and wondering whether it’s really shifting, this week brought a mix of “helpful signals” and “reality checks.” Below are the six updates most likely to impact buyers, sellers, and homeowners in York & Lancaster Counties.
Purchase-only Rate Snapshot (National averages)
Daily “locked-rate” averages (Optimal Blue):
- 30-yr conventional (conforming): 6.048%
- 15-yr conventional: 5.396%
- FHA 30-yr: 5.956%
- VA 30-yr: 5.690%
- USDA 30-yr: 5.790%
Freddie Mac weekly benchmark (PMMS):
- 30-yr fixed: 6.09%
- 15-yr fixed: 5.44%
Quick takeaway: Rates are still hovering around the low-6% range, so the biggest impact on affordability is usually the payment plan (price point + down payment + program choice) more than trying to time a perfect dip.
Freddie Mac: weekly mortgage rates eased again
Freddie Mac’s weekly survey shows rates edging down again — a positive signal for affordability and buyer confidence heading toward spring.
Local takeaway: This is a good week to price-check. A fresh quote plus a couple payment scenarios can reveal options that weren’t available a few months ago.
NAR: existing-home sales slowed in January
Existing-home sales pulled back in January. Weather can play a role in winter numbers, but affordability and supply remain key factors nationally.
Local takeaway: For sellers, condition + pricing still matter a lot. For buyers, negotiation power often shows up first on homes that are “close, but not perfect.”
MBA: mortgage applications show buyers are still active
MBA’s weekly survey suggests buyer activity is still there — and serious buyers tend to move when the numbers work.
Local takeaway: If you’re planning a spring move, getting pre-approved early helps you move fast when the right home hits — and it reduces stress if competition shows up.
Redfin: buyers cautious, more sellers showing up
Redfin’s market update describes buyers still being careful while more sellers begin to list — which can improve choices as spring approaches.
Local takeaway: More choices usually helps buyers. The smoothest deals often happen when a home is priced realistically and both sides want a clean timeline.
2026 loan limits increased (conventional + FHA)
Loan limits moved up in 2026. This matters because it can affect product availability and where “jumbo vs non-jumbo” starts.
Read More (FHFA)
Read More FHA (HUD)
Local takeaway: Most York & Lancaster buyers won’t shop near the maximum limits, but these thresholds can still impact financing options and pricing tiers.
Local spotlight: York ranked #3 in a “financial resilience” metro study
A financial resilience study ranked York, PA #3 among metros best positioned to handle economic setbacks, highlighting local fundamentals.
Read The Study
Read Local Coverage
Local takeaway: National headlines matter — but real estate is local. Strong local fundamentals can help a market hold up better when the broader economy gets noisy.
What this means if you’re planning a move
Buyers: get a fresh pre-approval and run 2–3 payment scenarios (conventional vs FHA, different down payments, and a buydown option).
Sellers: build a pricing + launch plan that fits your timeline, and be ready to stand out on condition and presentation.
Susan & Kurt Johnston – REALTORS® – Iron Valley Real Estate of York County
Serving York & Lancaster Counties & the Surrounding Susquehanna Valley
Call/Text: 717-965-7763 • Office: (717) 316-8777
Email:
Website: https://johnstonhomes4u.com
Disclaimer: This is general information only and not financial or legal advice. Rates and programs vary by borrower and lender.
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