Author: Sean Valdez

Commercial and multifamily mortgage originations in the US saw another strong quarter in Q2 2026, with volumes climbing approximately 16% year-over-year and up 12% from Q1. This marks a continued recovery in lending activity across various property types. Retail properties stood out, with originations jumping about 61% compared to last year. Office properties also made a notable comeback, increasing 47% year-over-year and 23% from the previous quarter—a clear sign that lenders are regaining confidence in this sector after several challenging years. Hotels, multifamily, and industrial sectors posted gains as well, while health care originations dipped by 19% in Q2.

It's interesting to see CMBS and bank lenders capturing more of the market, which has created competitive pricing and additional opportunities for borrowers as loan extensions decline and liquidity improves. A mid-Q1 2026 forecast anticipated that total 2026 originations would reach $805.5 billion, about 27% higher than 2025’s estimated $633.7 billion. For those considering new investments or portfolio adjustments, these trends point to a market with renewed momentum and increased options for financing. As someone dedicated to helping clients navigate financing with clarity and confidence, I’m always watching these shifts to better support your real estate and investment goals.

Preparing to buy your first home can feel overwhelming, but a clear plan makes all the difference. As someone who's walked many clients through this journey, I always recommend starting with the rent-versus-buy question: if you’re settled in your community and see yourself staying, it’s worth weighing monthly costs, long-term flexibility, and the advantages of homeownership. Think about what fits your lifestyle—size, number of bedrooms, workspace, maintenance preferences, commute times, and the type of neighborhood you want, whether it's city living, the suburbs, or something more private.

Keep in mind: putting down less than 20% often means adding private mortgage insurance, while a 20% down payment can help you avoid it. Don’t forget to plan for closing costs and the ongoing expenses of owning a home. Knowing your credit score, gathering your tax and income records, and looking into loan programs that offer as little as 3% down—or even no down payment—can open up more options, sometimes with assistance for closing costs. If your dream home isn’t quite within reach yet, consider a starter property or renting for a bit longer to build equity and strengthen your financial position. Every step you take prepares you for a confident purchase when the time is right.

The landscape of commercial lending is evolving, with commercial mortgage originations in the U.S. up 16% year over year in Q2. This uptick signals more robust activity from both borrowers and investors. Alternative lenders have now captured 38% of non-agency loan closings, which means there are more options for financing beyond traditional banks. For those pursuing commercial property opportunities, tighter spreads are making financing terms more attractive—especially for strong properties and qualified borrowers. As someone who believes in finding the right loan solution for each client's needs, I see real value in thoroughly comparing banks, debt funds, life companies, and other specialized lenders. The right guidance can truly make a difference in achieving your commercial real estate goals.

Timing can make a real difference when navigating the homebuying journey. According to recent projections, the week of September 27 to October 3 in 2026 is expected to offer buyers a unique advantage—with a stronger selection of homes, more manageable pricing, and less competition. During this period, active listings could climb by 31.9% compared to the start of the year and by 13.3% above the average week, giving buyers wider options nationwide. Listing prices are forecasted to be 3.5% below their seasonal peak—potentially saving buyers around $14,000 on a median-priced home of $416,000. With competition projected to be down 30.1% from its annual high and homes expected to spend about 64 days on the market, there’s likely to be more breathing room for decision-making. As a mortgage professional, I always encourage buyers to consider not only their financing options but also the broader market landscape—timing your purchase can be just as important as finding the right loan solution to fit your needs.

When stepping into homeownership, it's important to prepare for expenses that go beyond your mortgage and the initial closing costs. Many new homeowners find that the first year brings additional outlays for repairs, appliances, and furnishings—costs that can catch buyers off guard if they're not mapped out early. On average, buyers of newly built homes spend about $26,900 in their first year, compared to $18,700 for existing homes. If you're moving into new construction, expect to allocate around $4,300 for appliances and household equipment, while those purchasing existing homes spend closer to $3,700. Furnishing your space can also add up, averaging $8,300 in new builds and $3,900 in resales, especially if you’re filling a larger home. Alterations and repairs tend to be the largest first-year expense: $14,300 for new homes and $11,100 for existing ones. As someone who guides clients through every aspect of home financing, I always encourage careful budgeting for these extra costs. Planning ahead can make your transition smoother and help you feel confident in your new investment.