Georgia Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Level Since 2022: What It Means for Buyers and Sellers in North Metro Atlanta
Is Now a Good Time to Buy or Sell in Georgia With Mortgage Rates at 6.01%?
Mortgage rates just hit their lowest level since September 2022, with the 30-year fixed averaging 6.01%. So what does that actually mean for you as a buyer or seller in today’s North Metro Atlanta real estate market? The answer depends on timing, inventory, and how prepared you are to act. Let’s break it down.
Where Georgia Mortgage Rates Stand in 2026
As of February 19, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropped to 6.01%, while the 15-year sits at 5.35% . That’s the lowest average since September 2022.
For perspective:
One year ago: 6.85%
Five years ago: 2.81%
On a $400,000 home:
At 6.85% → ~$2,621/month (principal & interest)
At 6.01% → ~$2,401/month
That’s roughly $220 less per month compared to last year .
National economists estimate 5.5 million additional households may now qualify for a mortgage compared to last year .
But here’s the key question…
Does that automatically mean the market is about to surge?
What National Trends Say About 2026
According to the National Association of Realtors, existing home sales softened late last year, with December sales dropping 8.4% month-over-month. Pending home sales also declined on both a monthly and annual basis .
However, lower rates are already increasing refinance activity, and historically, rate drops tend to stimulate buyer demand heading into the spring market.
Economists expect:
Increased buyer activity in spring 2026
A seasonal rise in inventory
More competition if rates continue trending down
The bigger story? Affordability is improving, but inventory will determine how competitive things become.
What This Means for Buyers in North Metro Atlanta
If you’re asking, “Is now a good time to buy in Georgia?” here’s how to think about it strategically.
1️⃣ Your Buying Power Just Improved
At 6.01%, your monthly payment is meaningfully lower than it was at nearly 7%. That could:
Expand your price range
Reduce your cash-to-close stress
Improve qualification odds
2️⃣ You May Beat the Spring Rush
If rates continue trending downward, more buyers will re-enter the market. Acting before widespread momentum builds could mean:
Less competition
Stronger negotiating leverage
More flexible sellers
3️⃣ Refinancing Is an Option Later
Many buyers today are using a “marry the house, date the rate” strategy. If rates drop into the mid-5s later, refinancing could further reduce your payment.
The key? Don’t time the bottom, time your opportunity.
What This Means for Sellers in the North Metro Atlanta Real Estate Market
If you’re a seller, lower rates shift your leverage, but only if you’re positioned correctly.
1️⃣ More Buyers Can Qualify
With millions of households nationally now able to qualify, buyer demand could increase, especially in move-up price points.
2️⃣ Inventory Still Matters
While rates are improving, Georgia inventory levels remain critical. In many North metro communities, supply is still relatively tight compared to historical norms.
That means:
Well-priced homes are still moving
Updated homes show stronger activity
Overpriced listings stall quickly
3️⃣ Pricing Strategy Is Everything
Lower rates do not mean you can overprice. Today’s buyers are still payment-sensitive. Strategic pricing creates competition, and competition drives stronger outcomes.
What We’re Watching Across Georgia in 2026
Based on broader Georgia market reports this year:
Modest increases in inventory compared to 2025
Steady buyer demand in suburban markets
Continued sensitivity to affordability
Strong interest in North Metro counties
The market is not overheated.
It’s not frozen.
It’s stabilizing.
That’s often where opportunity lives.
So… Is Now a Good Time to Buy or Sell in Georgia?
The better question is:
Is now the right time for your specific situation?
Lower Georgia mortgage rates in 2026 create momentum, but your goals matter more than headlines.
If you’re:
Relocating
Upsizing
Downsizing
Investing
Sitting on significant equity
Waiting on rates to “drop more.”
You need a strategy, not speculation.
Final Takeaway
A 6.01% mortgage rate doesn’t recreate the 3% era, but it meaningfully improves affordability compared to last year.
For buyers, it may be a window before competition accelerates.
For sellers, it may be the catalyst that brings qualified buyers back into the market.
Either way, the opportunity is in preparation, not prediction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mortgage rates expected to drop more in 2026?
Forecasts suggest gradual stabilization, but significant drops depend on inflation and Federal Reserve policy. Waiting for dramatic declines may not be realistic.
Is 6.01% considered a good mortgage rate historically?
Yes. While higher than pandemic-era lows, 6% is historically moderate compared to long-term averages.
Should I wait for rates to fall before buying in Georgia?
If waiting improves your financial position, it may make sense. But if rates drop significantly, competition may increase, offsetting savings.
Are home prices dropping in North Metro Atlanta?
Prices have stabilized in many areas rather than sharply declining. Hyper-local data matters more than national headlines.
Does lower interest automatically mean higher home prices?
Often, yes, because increased affordability brings more buyers into the market, which can drive competition.
Is now a good time to sell in Georgia?
If your home is well-prepared and priced strategically, lower rates may increase your buyer pool heading into spring.
Let’s Talk Strategy
Let’s talk about your unique situation. We’re Greg and Jacquee Hart with Hart Realty Partners, your trusted real estate advisors serving North metro Atlanta and across Georgia. Whether you prefer a call, text, DM, or email, reach out in the way that works best for you, and let’s create a strategy tailored to your goals.
Attribution:
Homes.com Mortgage Rates Report, February 19, 2026
National Association of Realtors housing reports (2026)
Georgia market trend reports (2026)
