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  • Jobless claims rose to 235K last week, up 11K, reaching the highest level since June and signaling a possible cool-down in the labor market.
  • Minutes from last month's Fed meeting showed debate over tariffs’ impact on prices. Board members worried more about inflation than job losses.
  • Tariffs are starting to impact consumer prices. Retailers like Home Depot and Walmart acknowledge passing rising import costs on to shoppers.

Housing News

  • In August, builder confidence hit its lowest point in 5 years. Rising material costs and tariff anxiety are weighing on builders.
  • Existing home sales rose 2% in July, topping forecasts. With prices up more than 40% since 2020, affordability remains a major challenge for buyers.
  • Purchase mortgage applications were nearly flat last week but still ran 23% above last year and were at their strongest pace in 4 weeks.

Market Minute Report - Mortgage News