Lender Insights & Predictions for 2026

HomeLight’s Lender Insights & Predictions for 2026 report compiles the findings of a survey of loan officers from 69 top lending companies across the United States, including American Pacific Mortgage, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, The Loan Store, and more.

 

 

What's offered in the Lender Insights & Predictions Report?

  • 2026 won’t be a picnic, but lenders are optimistic
  • Move-up buyers will lead the charge in 2026
  • Co-buying is giving buyers a foot in the door
  • Downsizers are flush with cash and using it
  • Lenders are looking to AI to speed things up
  • More homeowners will turn to buy-before-you-sell programs
Lender Insights and Predictions for 2026 cover booklet

HomeLight’s Lender Insights & Predictions survey for 2026 was fielded between October 16 and 23, 2025. As 2025 comes to a close, lenders are looking ahead with optimism: 85% predict an increase in mortgage originations in 2026, with nearly half expecting growth of more than 10%.

First-time buyers, meanwhile, continue to struggle with affordability and turn to creative solutions like co-buying and down-payment gifts.

AI is set to assist — not replace — lenders, while buy-before-you-sell programs emerge as the top tool for move-up buyers.

At the end of the day, lenders agree: a steadier, more hopeful housing market is ahead.

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Access our Lender Insights & Predictions for 2026 Report

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