After about ten straight days of mortgage rates moving in the wrong direction, we’ve finally seen a bit of relief over the last couple of days.

Part of the shift is coming from the latest jobs reports. The numbers came in a little softer than economists were hoping for, showing slower job creation and some signs of weakness in the labor market. When the economy shows signs of cooling, bond markets tend to respond positively.

At the same time, oil prices have moved lower. When energy prices fall, inflation concerns tend to ease. That has pushed Treasury yields down, and when Treasuries improve, mortgage rates typically follow.

The result is a small rebound in mortgage pricing over the last two days. We’re not back to where we were before the recent spike, but it’s a welcome move in the right direction and a reminder of how quickly things can shift.

On the housing side, the news continues to be encouraging. Pending home sales are up 1.8%, showing that buyers are still actively stepping into the market. We’ll likely see a short pause in activity with Spring Break travel over the next couple of weeks, but overall the demand we’re seeing from buyers is stronger than it has been in quite some time.

Looking ahead, we’ll keep watching the economic data closely. If inflation continues to cool and economic growth moderates, there’s a good chance we see rates gradually improve from here.

For now, the market remains active and buyers are adjusting to today’s rate environment better than many expected.

— Brooks

One of the easiest ways for agents to become more valuable to clients has nothing to do with marketing, scripts, or negotiation.

It’s becoming the person who always knows someone good.

Homeowners constantly need help with painters, roofers, contractors, landscapers, movers, and insurance agents. When those needs pop up, people ask friends or neighbors for a recommendation.

If you’re the agent who consistently has great answers, you stop being just the person who helped them buy a house. You become their go-to resource for anything related to homeownership.

The key is making sure the vendors you recommend are actually great.

The best contractors rarely come from a quick Google search. They usually come from people who see their work regularly.

Some of the best places to find quality vendors are:

• past clients who had great experiences
• listing agents who prep homes for market
• home inspectors who see everyone’s work
• property managers dealing with repairs constantly

These people quickly learn which vendors are reliable and which ones create headaches.

Before you add someone to your trusted list, spend a little time getting to know them.

Ask a few simple questions:

• How long have you been in business?
• What types of projects do you focus on?
• How quickly do you typically schedule work?
• What happens if a client isn’t happy?

If possible, look at examples of their work or ask for photos from recent projects. Your reputation is tied to every recommendation you make.

When you introduce great vendors to your clients, everyone wins.

Your clients get help.
The vendor gets business.
And over time those vendors start sending opportunities your way.

Contractors, painters, and insurance agents often hear about moves before anyone else.

The agent who becomes the most helpful connector in their market usually ends up being the agent people call when it’s time to move.