★ MARK’S BOTTOM LINE — WEEK OF MAY 13, 2026

The Fed is holding steady — and for the first time in a while, the next move is more likely down than up. Scottsdale buyers who are prepared will have the advantage.

• Fed status: Holding steady — no change at April 29 meeting
• Direction: Rate cuts are on the table — hikes are off
• Scottsdale market: Inventory remains tight, motivated buyers are active
• Best move this week: Get pre-approved now so you’re ready to move fast
• Free rate check: Request yours here →

Every Wednesday I put out a quick update on what’s happening with the Federal Reserve, the broader economy, and what it means for buyers and homeowners here in Scottsdale and the Twin Cities. No jargon — just a straight read from someone who’s been doing this for over 30 years.

The Fed held rates steady at its April 29 meeting — and the language coming out of that meeting was notable. For the first time, Fed officials signaled that cuts, not hikes, are the direction they’re leaning. That’s a meaningful shift in tone, and buyers who understand what it means will be better positioned than those who are still waiting on the sidelines.

What the Fed Said This Week

The Federal Reserve held its benchmark rate steady at the April 29 meeting — continuing a patient, data-driven approach as officials monitor inflation and employment trends. What stood out was the language: the Fed’s official statement subtly signaled that additional rate cuts — not hikes — are the most likely next move. That’s a shift worth paying attention to.

Adding to the mix, Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s term expires May 15, 2026. Leadership transitions at the Fed historically create short-term uncertainty in markets. It’s something to watch — not panic over — but worth understanding as you plan your next move.

What This Means for Scottsdale Buyers and Homeowners

A Fed on pause is not bad news for Scottsdale buyers. What it means is stability — and stability is what allows buyers to plan with confidence. The frantic rate volatility of the past few years has settled, and that creates a cleaner environment for making decisions.

Inventory in Scottsdale remains tight in the mid-range market. Well-priced homes are still moving. The buyers winning right now are not the ones waiting for a perfect rate environment — they’re the ones who got pre-approved, understood their numbers, and were ready to move when the right home showed up.

If you’re thinking about a Buy Before You Sell strategy or want to explore your options on a purchase loan in Scottsdale, this is a smart time to run the numbers.

A Note for Twin Cities Buyers and Homeowners

The same Fed dynamics apply in Minneapolis and Edina. Steady rates, cautious buyers, and motivated sellers are creating real opportunity for buyers who are prepared. If you’re a first-time buyer in the Twin Cities or a move-up buyer in Edina, this environment rewards preparation over timing. The buyers I’m seeing succeed right now are the ones who stopped waiting and started planning.

Mark’s Take

After more than 30 years in this business, I’ve watched buyers talk themselves out of good opportunities waiting for perfect ones. I’ve never seen a perfect rate environment — and neither has anyone else. What I have seen is that the buyers who win are the ones who get their financing dialed in early, understand exactly what they qualify for, and move with confidence when the right home comes along. That’s what preparation looks like. If you want to know where you stand, call me — I’ll give you a straight answer.

Ready to talk numbers?

Mark Merry has helped Scottsdale and Twin Cities buyers close for over 30 years. Request your free mortgage assessment — no obligation, no pressure.Get My Free Assessment →

Mark Merry · Granite Bank · NMLS #452552 · Licensed in all 50 states · About Mark →

About the Author

Mark Merry is a licensed mortgage advisor at Granite Bank (NMLS #452552) with more than 30 years of experience in home financing. He serves buyers and homeowners in Scottsdale, AZ and the Twin Cities, MN — and is licensed in all 50 states. Learn more about Mark →