Avoid big buys before Fed meeting
Heads up, homebuyers: avoid big purchases, new credit applications, or large deposits before the March Fed meeting because these moves could affect mortgage approvals and rates [https://cbsnews.com/news/things-homebuyers-should-avoid-before-the-fed-march-2026-meeting]. How long after the meeting should I wait before making big financial moves?
The Federal Reserve is widely expected to hold steady on interest rates at its March 2026 meeting. The central bank's monetary policy aims to balance price stability with supporting economic growth. The latest inflation reading of 2.4% in January remains above the Fed's 2% target. Market forecasts suggest one or two rate cuts by the end of 2026 if inflation cools or the labor market weakens. Most experts anticipate rates hovering around 6% through mid-year. Uncertainty remains due to volatile tariff policy and the upcoming end of Jerome Powell's term in May. Geopolitical tensions, such as the war in Iran, can also impact mortgage rates. Despite a weakening U.S. economy, conflict in Iran has kept mortgage rates above 6%. Without these tensions, some analysts believe rates could be lower.
