Skyler McCurdy · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Mortgage Market Update

Skyler McCurdy

Skyler McCurdy

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Hello! As we head into the new year, homeowners often ask me what their homes are really worth to them—not the sale price, but the stake they actually own.

National Mortgage Rates · July 30, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.66%

FHA 30-Year

6.43%

VA 30-Year

6.25%

Rate trend

Source: Freddie Mac PMMS & Optimal Blue via FRED

Rates shown are national averages and are provided for informational purposes only. Actual rates vary based on credit profile, loan amount, and market conditions. Please contact us for a personalized rate quote.


Equity Building

How much equity are you sitting on?

Every mortgage payment you make builds equity—that's the portion of your home's value you actually own. The longer you've had your mortgage, the more equity you've likely accumulated. This matters because equity can open doors: it's what you'd walk away with if you sold, and it can be borrowed against if you need cash for repairs, education, or other goals.

If you're not sure how much equity you have, now's a good time to find out. Knowing this number helps you make smarter decisions about your home's future—whether that's refinancing, taking out a home equity line, or simply understanding your net worth. I can pull a quick estimate for you anytime.

Let me know if you'd like to review your equity position or discuss your options.

Tip of the Week

Landscaping maintenance protects your home's value — overgrown yards are the number one curb appeal issue buyers notice.

Tips for Homeowners

HOA Fees and How They Affect Your Mortgage

1.

HOA dues are included in your debt-to-income ratio calculation when you apply for a mortgage. High HOA fees reduce how much home you can qualify for.

2.

Before buying in an HOA, review the financials: reserve fund balance, any pending special assessments, and recent meeting minutes. A depleted reserve fund can mean a large unexpected charge.

3.

HOA dues are generally not tax-deductible for a primary residence. If the home is a rental property, dues may be deductible as a business expense.

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Skyler McCurdy team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

S

Skyler McCurdy

Skyler McCurdy

skyler@barrettfinancial.com

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