HousingWire Daily Portable mortgages and the rise in purchase apps
Nov 13, 2025
Logan Mohtashami, a lead analyst specializing in the mortgage and housing market, joins to discuss the surge in purchase applications and the concept of portable mortgages. He breaks down how these mortgages work and their potential impacts on lenders. The conversation also touches on the recent resignation of Raphael Bostic at the Federal Reserve and its implications for housing policy. Logan predicts a possible rate cut in December, linking it to current labor market trends and mortgage rates.
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Surprising Strength In Purchase Applications
- Purchase applications showed a rare strong print with 31% year-over-year growth and positive weekly momentum.
- Logan Mohtashami warns we need 12–14 weeks of positive weekly data to confirm a sustainable recovery.
Small Rate Moves Can Spark Demand
- Rates near 6% with duration could materially boost housing demand without radical policy changes.
- Mohtashami emphasizes small rate improvements, not extreme measures, to revive activity.
Treat Portable Mortgages With Caution
- Treat portable mortgages as complex trial balloons until legal frameworks are defined.
- Do not assume portable mortgages are transaction-light; expect qualification, balance adjustments, and possible seconds.