The mortgage market got a jolt this week as President Trump announced plans to direct Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to purchase $200 billion in mortgage-backed securities. Brian and David discuss what this means for borrowers and why the impact might play out differently across various real estate markets—potentially sparking bidding wars in competitive areas like Milwaukee while improving affordability in softer markets.

The team reveals Milwaukee’s 2025 housing numbers: sales up 1.7%, median prices climbing 6.1% to $355,000, and realtor.com projecting another 7% increase in 2026. Despite slightly more inventory, southeastern Wisconsin remains a hot seller’s market with strong buyer competition expected to continue.

David shares two compelling stories from the lending trenches: rescuing a client from a nosy credit union underwriter who questioned a legitimate price reduction, and coaching a million-dollar homebuyer on what really matters beyond just mortgage approval. His insight? For qualified buyers in competitive markets, the artistry of winning the house often matters more than simply getting the loan.

Plus, why that weak pre-approval letter might cost you the house, the importance of teamwork between lender and buyer’s agent, and how rising home values are creating refinance opportunities to eliminate PMI.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

# Milwaukee Housing Market Heats Up: Top 10 Nationally for 2026

Brian and David Wickert kick off 2026 with exciting news: Milwaukee metro area ranks #8 among the nation’s hottest housing markets according to Realtor.com. The four-county region is projected to see a 7% median price increase, pushing homes toward $391,000 by year’s end—great news for current homeowners, but a reminder that prices aren’t dropping anytime soon.

Even more impressive? Six Wisconsin markets landed in November’s top 20 hottest markets nationwide, with Kenosha claiming the #2 spot. These rankings reflect both high buyer interest and quick sales velocity, with Milwaukee properties moving in just 38 days versus the national average of 64.

For buyers, this means competition remains fierce. Rock-solid pre-approvals and strategic offers will be essential tools in 2026. David shares two creative refinance stories: helping expectant parents restructure their mortgage and another story in solving a daughter’s home-buying puzzle by refinancing her father’s duplex.

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling in a hot market, or exploring refinance options to optimize your financial position, the Accunet team delivers the local market intelligence and problem-solving strategies southeastern Wisconsin homeowners need in the year ahead.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

**Navigating Income Verification, New Construction Challenges, and Holiday Market Dynamics**

Join Brian and David Wickert as they break down a week of economic data that left mortgage rates surprisingly stable. Despite positive jobs reports and encouraging inflation numbers, rates held steady—proving that today’s market has already arrived at 2026’s forecasted levels.

The conversation dives deep into the critical details of income verification that can make or break a home purchase. From medical professionals changing to part-time schedules to the difference between “full-time” and “consistent” income, the Wickerts share real stories of deals saved and deals lost based on documentation details. Learn why co-signing is far more serious than most people realize and discover alternative lending tools like asset depletion and trust income strategies.

A fascinating new construction case study reveals the complexities of buying a spec home—from estimating future property taxes on incomplete properties to navigating appraisal challenges when builders need to establish neighborhood comps. The team demonstrates how quick turnaround on appraisals (completed in days, not weeks) can protect buyers’ earnest money and keep deals moving forward during the busy holiday season.

Perfect for anyone considering refinancing or preparing to purchase in early 2026’s expected market surge.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​