Lender Insights & Predictions Q2 2026

Find out what loan officers from 78 top lending companies across the country are seeing in the market right now—from down payment pressures and foreclosure activity to buyer misconceptions and equity-powered moves. Featuring insights from American Pacific Mortgage, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, The Loan Store, and more.

 

What’s covered in the Q2 2026 Lender Insights & Predictions Report?

  • Buyers are searching for ways around the down payment barrier
  • Nontraditional homes are moving into the mainstream
  • Foreclosure activity is ticking upward
  • The buy-first strategy is gaining momentum
  • Record home equity is reshaping borrower decisions
  • 5 misconceptions keeping buyers on the sidelines
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HomeLight’s Lender Insights & Predictions for Q2 2026 was fielded between February 19 and February 26, 2026, through an online poll of loan officers from 78 top lending companies across the United States.

In a housing market shaped by economic uncertainty and persistent affordability challenges, a nationwide survey of lenders offers a clearer picture of what’s real — and what’s driven by fear. A third of potential borrowers are asking about down payment assistance, nontraditional homes are gaining mainstream traction, and record home equity is unlocking new paths forward. At the same time, foreclosure activity is ticking upward and deeply held misconceptions are keeping otherwise qualified buyers on the sidelines. Here’s what loan officers across the country are seeing right now.

Lender Insights & Predictions Q2 2026
Lender Insights & Predictions Q2 2026
Lender Insights & Predictions Q2 2026
Lender Insights & Predictions Q2 2026
Access our Q2 2026 Lender Insights & Predictions Report

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