FEBRUARY 2026

MORTGAGE FINANCING BULLETIN

LaPorte Group Mortgage | Jackson, Minnesota

As we move further into 2026, the mortgage and housing markets continue to gain momentum. February is a key planning month for buyers and homeowners, especially for those looking to act before the spring market becomes more competitive.

Below is an overview of current mortgage financing conditions and opportunities for February.

INTEREST RATE UPDATE

Mortgage rates remain relatively steady, generally holding in the low-to-mid 6 percent range for well-qualified borrowers.

• Rates continue to react to inflation data, employment reports, and Federal Reserve guidance

• Day-to-day movement is expected, but overall volatility has remained moderate

• FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loan programs remain widely available

Rates vary based on credit score, loan program, down payment, debt-to-income ratio, and property type.

FEBRUARY HOUSING MARKET SNAPSHOT

February is often a transition month as the market begins to warm up ahead of spring.

• Buyer activity continues to increase after the start-of-year slowdown

• Sellers begin preparing homes for early spring listings

• Inventory remains limited in many areas, supporting home values

• Buyers who are prepared can move quickly when new listings hit the market

Getting pre-approved early provides a strong advantage.

MORTGAGE FINANCING OPTIONS

LaPorte Group Mortgage offers a wide range of financing solutions to meet different needs.

Conventional Financing

• Updated 2026 loan limits provide increased purchasing power

• Competitive rates for buyers with strong credit

• Low down payment options available

FHA Financing

• Flexible credit guidelines

• Low down payment requirements

• Popular choice for first-time buyers

VA Financing

• Zero-down options for eligible veterans and service members

• No monthly mortgage insurance

• Competitive interest rates

USDA Rural Development

• Zero-down financing in eligible rural areas

• Updated income limits for 2026

• Strong option for buyers in qualifying communities

REFINANCING CONSIDERATIONS

February is a great time for homeowners to review their current mortgage.

Refinancing may help you:

• Lower your monthly payment

• Consolidate high-interest debt

• Move from FHA to conventional financing

• Remove mortgage insurance

• Access equity for home improvements or other financial goals

I am happy to provide a no-cost refinance review and payment comparison.

PLANNING TO BUY IN 2026

If purchasing a home is part of your plan this year, preparation is key.

Helpful steps include:

• Reviewing your credit profile

• Getting pre-approved

• Gathering recent pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, and bank statements

• Establishing a comfortable monthly payment range

Early preparation can reduce stress and improve your buying experience.

PRE-APPROVALS AND APPLICATIONS

I work with buyers and homeowners across Minnesota and Iowa and can often provide same-day pre-approvals.

Apply online anytime at:
www.laportegroup.net

For questions or personalized mortgage guidance:
Phone: 507-847-4466
Email: kip@laportegroup.net

THANK YOU

Thank you to my clients, referral partners, and community for your continued trust. I look forward to helping families with their home financing needs throughout 2026.

Kip Wachal
LaPorte Group Mortgage
NMLS #8872 / #8909