Mortgage Delinquencies Fell To 3.35% In March According To ICE Data

The national mortgage delinquency rate saw a notable decline in March 2026, falling to 3.35%. According to the latest "First Look" data from Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), the drop highlights a period of stabilization for homeowners even as other market metrics show signs of shifting momentum. While late payments decreased, the foreclosure inventory remained a key point of data, sitting at approximately 273,000 loans.

Industry experts use these figures to gauge the overall health of the housing market and the financial resilience of American households. The decrease in delinquencies suggests that more borrowers are keeping up with their monthly payments despite broader economic pressures. However, the report also noted that the Single Month Mortality (SMM) rate—a measure of prepayment speeds—rose to 1.06%, indicating increased activity in loan payoffs or refinances during the month.

Moving forward, analysts will be watching to see if this downward trend in delinquencies can be sustained through the second quarter. The balance between low delinquency rates and a steady foreclosure inventory will be critical in determining whether the mortgage market remains on solid footing. These early indicators provide a vital snapshot for lenders and policymakers navigating the current fiscal landscape.

This report was originally published by HousingWire.