High Lakes Lending, LLC · October 19, 2026

Have you checked your home equity lately?

Mortgage Market Update

High Lakes Lending, LLC

High Lakes Lending, LLC

Monday, October 19, 2026

Have you checked your home equity lately?

I talk with homeowners every week who are surprised to learn how much equity they've built. Here's why that number matters.

National Mortgage Rates · October 16, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.28%

FHA 30-Year

7.13%

VA 30-Year

6.93%

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.


Equity Awareness

You might have more home equity than you think

If you've owned your home for a few years and made regular payments, you've likely built up equity—the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. Many homeowners don't realize how much they've accumulated. Knowing your equity matters because it opens doors: you can tap into it for major expenses, home improvements, or other financial goals through a cash-out refinance or home equity line of credit. It's also a reminder that your mortgage is working for you, building wealth month after month. If you're curious where you stand, I'm happy to help you figure that out.

Let's talk about your equity and what options might make sense for your situation.

Tip of the Week

Your loan officer can run a credit simulator to show exactly which actions will move your score the most.

Tips for Homeowners

Year-End Tax & Mortgage Planning

1.

Consider making your January mortgage payment in December to get an extra month of deductible interest in the current tax year (consult your tax advisor first).

2.

If you plan to sell next year, now is a good time to document improvements — receipts and records add to your cost basis and reduce taxable capital gain at sale.

3.

Review your W-4 withholding if you bought a home this year — your mortgage interest deduction may mean you're having too much withheld from each paycheck.

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

Your Mortgage Advisor

H

High Lakes Lending, LLC

High Lakes Lending, LLC

clint@highlakeslending.com

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