The housing market just got a curveball that could change everything for buyers and sellers in 2026.

President Trump confirmed this week that Jerome Powell is out as Federal Reserve Chair. Kevin Warsh is in. And if you have any interest in buying or selling a home this year, you need to understand what this means for mortgage rates—and what you should do about it.

Warsh served on the Fed during the 2008 financial crisis. Back then, he was the guy arguing against stimulus and money printing. He wanted higher rates, warned about inflation, and eventually quit when the Fed kept the money printer running.

So naturally, when Trump announced him, markets freaked out. Gold and silver had their biggest drop in history. The assumption? Warsh would prioritize a strong dollar over everything else—including affordable mortgages.

But here's the twist.

In recent statements, Warsh has done a complete 180. He's now pushing for lower rates. His exact words: "We can lower interest rates a lot, and in so doing, get 30-year fixed-rate mortgages so they're affordable, so we can get the housing market to get going again."

His justification? Artificial Intelligence.

Warsh believes AI will massively increase productivity while crushing costs. If companies can produce twice as much for half the cost, prices naturally fall. That means the Fed can print more money and lower rates without triggering runaway inflation.

Whether you buy that argument or not, the key point is this: The new Fed Chair is explicitly targeting mortgage affordability.

The Warsh nomination creates uncertainty in the short term. But it also signals that mortgage rate relief could be coming sooner than expected. Although, it’s important to remember that Warsh’s nomination is subject to Senate approval. Even after being approved by the Senate, 6 other voting members of the FOMC would need to be on board with lowering rates.

Here's what I'm telling clients:

If you're a buyer: Don't wait for the "perfect" rate. History shows that when rates drop, prices rise as competition floods back in. The best time to buy is often before rates fall, not after. You can always refinance later.

If you're a seller: The window between now and whenever rates drop is your opportunity. Once rates fall and buyer competition returns, you'll be competing with every other seller who waited. Price it right now, and you capture the buyers who are actively looking instead of waiting.

The policy uncertainty will sort itself out. The question is whether you're positioned to take advantage when it does.

What You Should Do Now

Whether you're buying or selling, now is the time to get ready and be prepared. Waiting for "perfect clarity" means waiting forever. The opportunities go to those who understand the market and act decisively.

If you're thinking about making a move in 2026—or you're just trying to figure out what your home is worth in this shifting market—let's talk. I specialize in helping clients navigate exactly these kinds of uncertain conditions.

Here to serve,

P.S. Market conditions can change quickly. If you've been waiting for the "right time" to make a move, let's talk about whether that time might be now—before everyone else figures it out too.