Confused about when mortgage rates will finally drop? You're not alone—and this episode brings the answers. Kendall Garrison, CEO of Amplify Credit Union, joins Mike Mills to unpack what the Fed’s latest decision means for interest rates, real estate professionals, and your clients’ wallets.

🎯 Episode Overview

Mortgage Rate Forecasting is top of mind for Realtors in 2025—and in this data-packed episode, we’re giving you the insights you’ve been waiting for.

Mike Mills sits down with Kendall Garrison, CEO of Amplify Credit Union, to discuss the Federal Reserve’s recent decision not to cut rates, and what that signals for the housing market going forward. Together, they break down what real estate professionals need to understand about:

The real reason mortgage rates haven’t dropped
How the bond market and inflation data are shaping 2025 predictions
The surprising relationship between national debt, tariffs, and homebuyer affordability
Why fee-free banking is a game-changer for consumers and small businesses
A long-term wealth strategy Realtors can share with clients now

This is a must-listen if you're helping clients navigate rising costs, economic uncertainty, or struggling to make sense of rate volatility. By the end of the episode, you’ll walk away with actionable insights to use in conversations with buyers, sellers, and referral partners.

💡 Key Takeaways

📈 Why the Fed Isn’t Cutting Rates Yet

Kendall explains that inflation data—not just unemployment or GDP—is the primary driver behind the Fed's decisions. Mortgage rates may not move until inflation hits a more consistent decline.

🏦 How the Bond Market Controls Mortgage Rates

Realtors often assume the Fed directly sets mortgage rates, but Kendall breaks down how the 10-year Treasury yield, investor sentiment, and global factors drive the mortgage-backed securities market.

💰 National Debt and Housing Affordability

Rising U.S. debt means higher borrowing costs and unpredictable fiscal policies, which can push rates even higher. Kendall shares how this macro factor trickles down to affordability at the neighborhood level.

🚫 Why Amplify Went Fee-Free

In a bold move, Amplify Credit Union eliminated deposit account fees—something Kendall calls a moral and strategic imperative to support those most affected by traditional banking models.

🏠 Real Estate Is Still a Long Game

Despite market noise, Kendall reaffirms the power of real estate for long-term wealth—highlighting why buying, holding, and refinancing over time is still one of the smartest financial plays.

📚 Resources from This Episode

🔗 Podcast Website:

https://www.thetexasrealestateandfinancepodcast.com

🔗 Host Linktree:

https://linktr.ee/mikemillsmortgage

🎙️ Guest: Kendall Garrison

Title: Chief Executive Officer, Amplify Credit Union
Email: ceo@goamplify.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendallgarrison/
Company Website: https://www.goamplify.com
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@amplifycu

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