Accunet Mortgage & Realty Show 10-11-25

Accunet Mortgage & Realty Show 10-11-2025: Market Insights and Client Success

## Government Shutdown and Economic Data

The recent government shutdown left mortgage professionals without critical data like the jobs report. However, Bureau of Labor Statistics employees were recalled to complete the September Consumer Price Index report—needed for Social Security cost-of-living adjustments. This matters because CPI measures inflation, the primary driver of mortgage rates.

## Global Markets Impact Your Rate

Japanese political developments unexpectedly moved U.S. mortgage rates this week. Coalition negotiations caused rates to rise Monday, then fall Friday when the coalition collapsed. While you shouldn’t track Tokyo politics, this shows how rates reflect complex global factors beyond local conditions.

## Rate Options: No Single Answer

There’s no single “rate today.” Borrowers choose different approaches—some pay no points, others buy down their rate. The decision depends on loan size, equity, timeline, and cash preferences. Choose what aligns with your financial strategy.

## Southeastern Wisconsin Market

September sales rose 3% year-over-year to 1,546 transactions, though 20% below pre-pandemic levels. About 60-65% of homeowners have rates under 4%, creating a “lock-in effect.”

Median prices rose 7% to $362,500, but single-family homes ($390,000, up 10%) outpaced condos ($280,000, up 1.5%). Inventory is improving—new listings exceeded closings by 583 homes, creating a 2.5-month supply (still a seller’s market but trending toward balance).

Competition remains steady: 46% of homes sold above asking. With inflation stabilizing, buyers may be more selective, letting good homes move fast while mediocre properties linger.

## Success Story: Value Acceptance Wins

A buyer transitioning from Illinois won with a $20,000 over-ask offer using strategic advantages:

- **Value Acceptance**: Property qualified for no-appraisal at their offer price—eliminating risk and delays
- **Proactive Communication**: Calling the listing agent to highlight this advantage
- **Speed**: 10% down ready, committed to 2.5-week close

Lesson: Combine financial readiness, strategic advantages, clear communication, and speed.

## Smart Down Payment Strategy

A buyer planning $43,000 down (12%) explored alternatives: Every $1,000 in down payment changed their monthly payment by only $6.50. Keeping $10,000 in savings costs about $65 monthly—roughly two restaurant deliveries.

For homes needing work, having cash for repairs might outweigh minimal payment savings.

**Balance Three Factors**: Money leaving savings, money remaining for reserves, and monthly payment comfort. The best choice depends on your situation, not generic rules.

## Refinance Reality

Don’t wait for a full percentage point drop. On a $500,000 loan, even 0.5% saves $244 monthly—nearly $3,000 annually. Consider absolute savings and break-even timeline, not arbitrary rules.

## Key Takeaways

Markets are complex and globally connected. The best mortgage matches your specific cash position, income trajectory, and goals—not one-size-fits-all advice. Competitive success requires financial readiness, speed, and understanding advantages like value acceptance. Local dynamics matter most. Cash versus equity decisions should reflect your priorities and circumstances, helping you find what works best for your life and financial situation.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​