AD Mortgage survey reveals positive 2026 outlook from brokers

AD Mortgage on Thursday released its first Mortgage Professionals Pulse Report & 2026 Outlook, which offers a glimpse into broker sentiment, performance, challenges and expectations based on a survey of more than 300 mortgage professionals nationwide.

The survey, conducted in late November and early December, found that 70% of respondents said 2025 was a better year for business than 2024. Brokers reported an average satisfaction score of 7.58 out of 10, while 57.6% said they feel motivated heading into 2026.

Most respondents expect business to grow next year, with 84.5% forecasting increased activity. Brokers cited stronger referral networks (38.5%), expanded non-QM offerings (30.4%) and improvements in the borrower experience (11.7%) as the primary drivers of growth.

Brokers said the biggest challenges in 2025 were external. About 67.8% pointed to broader economic and market conditions, while 43.5% cited rate volatility.

Client acquisition challenges were noted by 31.4% of respondents. Internal or operational issues, such as tools or regulatory changes, were cited far less frequently.

Interest rates were the leading factor behind borrower hesitation, with 59.7% of brokers citing rates as the primary reason clients did not move forward. Home prices followed at 27.9%, while credit concerns accounted for 7.1%.

“Partner feedback confirms the industry’s optimism for a strong 2026. This positive market outlook provides the information needed to build strategies that empower mortgage professionals to drive market growth,” Max Slyusarchuk, CEO of AD Mortgage, said in a statement.