One of the most common misconceptions about interest rates and real estate is that a Federal Reserve rate increase automatically causes mortgage rates to increase. The relationship between the Federal Funds Rate and mortgage rates is much more complicated.

Big changes are on the horizon for the U.S. residential real estate industry. Starting December 1, 2025, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) will bring into force a sweeping new rule aimed at cracking down on money laundering via real estate transactions.