As anyone who has had even a passing interest in the housing industry has noticed, for the past two years real estate sales have been on a tear. Between remote working, the area’s appeal, and the dearth of homes for sale, it has been a seller’s market.

One key to a strong home market has always been the availability and cost of the money to buy homes. For the past several years, historically low-interest rates have helped drive the market. Despite the proliferation of cash buyers, the cost of mortgages and the health and integrity of the mortgage industry remains vitally important to the market.

So where do things stand, and where will they go? In this week's Northern Express, sister publication of The Ticker, writer Ross Boissoneau taps several local lenders for their insights, including how long interest rates might remain low and what's likely to be in store for the housing market over the next few years. The Northern Express is available to read online, or pick up a free copy on newsstands at nearly 700 spots in 14 counties across northern Michigan.