Tim Powers · October 27, 2026

Fixed or adjustable: which one fits you?

 

Tuesday, October 27, 2026

A Note From Tim Powers

🏡 Good News for Buyers & a Smart Move for Homeowners!

Happy Tuesday!

🏡 A Little Good News in Today's Housing Market!

If you've been keeping an eye on mortgage rates and home prices, there's some encouraging news worth sharing!

Mortgage rates moved slightly lower last week!

According to Freddie Mac, the national average 30-year fixed mortgage rate declined from 7.40% to 7.23%.

While rates remain elevated compared with recent years, it's a welcome change.

And here's something else interesting:

🏠 More Homes Available: National housing inventory increased 7.7% compared with last year.

💰 More Competitive Pricing: Median asking prices declined approximately 2.1% year over year.

🤝 More Negotiating Opportunities: With more homes available and fewer buyers competing, some sellers may be more willing to negotiate.

What does this mean for you?

If you've been considering purchasing a home, don't automatically assume you need to wait for interest rates to drop.

The combination of increased inventory, potential seller concessions, and creative financing options may create opportunities worth exploring.

Remember, the goal isn't necessarily to find the lowest interest rate. It's to find the right home with a mortgage payment that comfortably fits your budget.

And with access to more than 150 lenders, I can help explore financing options you may not have considered.

💙 Already Own a Home? You May Have More Options Than You Realize!

If you're already a homeowner, you're in a position that many people are working hard to achieve.

You have a place to call your own, the potential to build long-term equity, and possibly a mortgage rate significantly below today's market.

But here's something I encourage every homeowner to consider:

When was the last time you reviewed your mortgage and home equity?

Your financial situation today may look very different from when you originally purchased your home.

Perhaps you've accumulated equity, paid down debt, experienced changes in income, or have new financial goals.

That makes this a great time for a mortgage checkup!

💰 Could Your Home Equity Help You Accomplish Something Important?

Your home may be one of your largest financial assets, and understanding your equity options can be valuable.

Depending on your circumstances, that equity might help with:

🔨 Home Improvements: Finally remodeling that kitchen, upgrading your backyard, or making needed repairs.

💳 Debt Consolidation: Exploring whether paying off higher-interest debt could improve monthly cash flow.

🎓 Education: Helping cover college tuition or other educational expenses.

💍 Life's Big Moments: Planning a wedding or another major family event.

🏠 Future Opportunities: Exploring financing for another property or preparing for future financial goals.

Here's something many homeowners don't realize:

You may be able to access some of your equity without refinancing your existing first mortgage!

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) or second mortgage may provide options while allowing you to keep your current mortgage rate.

Of course, accessing equity isn't always the right decision. It adds debt secured by your home, and the costs and long-term impact should be carefully considered.

That's exactly why reviewing your options is so important.

⭐ My Offer to You: A FREE Mortgage & Home Equity Review!

I believe your mortgage deserves the same periodic attention you give your insurance, investments, and other important financial decisions.

During your complimentary review, we can look at:

✅ Your current mortgage rate and terms

✅ Your estimated home value and available equity

✅ Opportunities to improve monthly cash flow

✅ Whether a refinance, HELOC, or second mortgage makes financial sense

✅ Whether your existing mortgage is already the best option for your situation

And sometimes the best advice I can give you is to leave your mortgage exactly as it is!

My goal isn't to convince you to take out another loan. It's to make sure you're informed and making the most of your financial opportunities.

📞 Let's Take 10 Minutes and Review Your Options!

Whether you're thinking about buying, wondering what your home is worth, or simply curious whether your current mortgage could be working better for you, I'd love to help.

With over 20 years of mortgage experience and access to more than 150 lenders, I'm here to help you make informed decisions.

👉 Simply reply to this email with "FREE REVIEW" and I'll be happy to take a look!

Thinking about purchasing a home instead? Reply with "BUYING" and let's explore your options.

No pressure. No obligation. Just helpful information and personalized mortgage guidance.

Have a fantastic week!

Tim Powers
Branch Manager | Loan Originator
Powers Group Financial
Powered by Barrett Financial Group, LLC

📞 253-209-4247
NMLS #178079

Mortgage rates quoted are national averages as of October 22, 2026, for conventional loans with excellent credit and 20% down. Individual rates and terms vary. Housing statistics are national and may differ locally. Home equity financing involves costs and risks, including the possibility of foreclosure if payments are not made. All loans are subject to credit approval.

Mortgage Market Update

Fixed or adjustable: which one fits you?

Hi there. One of the most important decisions in the mortgage process isn't always obvious at first—but it shapes your entire borrowing experience.

National Mortgage Rates · October 29, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.15%

FHA 30-Year

7.04%

VA 30-Year

6.79%

Rate trend

Source: Optimal Blue daily mortgage indices via FRED

Rates shown are national mortgage index rates 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.

Check My Rate →

Loan Programs

Fixed or adjustable: which fits your plan?

When you're shopping for a mortgage, one of the biggest choices is whether to lock in a fixed rate for the life of your loan or start with an adjustable rate that can move over time. A fixed rate gives you predictability—your payment stays the same for 15, 20, or 30 years, which makes budgeting straightforward. An adjustable rate often starts lower, which can work well if you plan to sell or refinance before rates adjust, or if you're confident your income will grow. Neither is right for everyone. The best choice depends on how long you plan to stay in the home, your comfort level with payment changes, and your overall financial picture. I'd love to walk through both options and help you figure out which structure makes sense for your situation.

Let's talk through what works best for your timeline and peace of mind.

Tip of the Week

Test your sump pump before the rainy season by pouring water into the pit — a failed pump can lead to serious basement flooding.

Tips for Homeowners

Rate Lock Strategy: When and How Long to Lock

1.

A rate lock guarantees your interest rate for a set period — typically 30, 45, or 60 days. Longer locks cost more but protect you if the process takes longer than expected.

2.

Lock when you're under contract and confident the deal will close. Don't lock before you have a signed purchase agreement — you're paying for protection you may not need.

3.

If rates drop after you lock, ask your lender about a float-down option. Some lenders offer this for a fee, allowing you to take advantage of a lower rate if the market moves in your favor.

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

Signature
Book a Call

Your Mortgage Advisor

Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers

tpowers@barrettfinancial.com

+1 253-209-4247

f
ig
in
X
▶
↗

16427 N Scottsdale Rd Ste 410, Scottsdale, AZ 85254

+1 253-209-4247

Tim Powers  ·  Unsubscribe