"Joe the Mortgage Giant" · November 4, 2026

Does your loan term match your life?

 

Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Mortgage Market Update

Does your loan term match your life?

Hi there. This week I want to walk you through one of the biggest decisions in a mortgage—and one that often gets overlooked.

National Mortgage Rates · November 5, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.18%

FHA 30-Year

6.90%

VA 30-Year

6.76%

Rate trend

Source: Optimal Blue daily mortgage indices via FRED · 30-yr: Freddie Mac weekly survey

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 Terms

Why your loan length matters more than you think

When you're shopping for a mortgage, the interest rate grabs all the attention—but the term you choose (typically 15, 20, or 30 years) shapes your finances just as much. A shorter term means higher monthly payments but you'll own your home sooner and pay far less interest over time. A longer term spreads payments out, which can free up cash for other goals, but you're committed longer. There's no universal right answer; it depends on your income stability, other debts, and what matters most to you right now. The good news is we can run the numbers on different scenarios so you see exactly what each path looks like. Understanding this choice upfront keeps you from regret later.

Let's talk through which term fits your situation best.

Tip of the Week

Refinancing resets your amortization clock. If you're 10 years into a 30-year loan, consider a shorter term to avoid paying more total interest.

Tips for Homeowners

Co-Signing a Mortgage: What You're Really Agreeing To

1.

Co-signing makes you equally responsible for the debt. If the primary borrower misses payments, your credit score takes the same hit and the lender can pursue you for the full balance.

2.

The co-signed mortgage debt appears on your credit report and counts toward your DTI. This can limit your ability to qualify for your own financing until the loan is paid off or refinanced out of your name.

3.

There's no automatic way to remove yourself as a co-signer — the primary borrower must refinance the loan in their name alone. Get this understanding in writing before you sign.

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

Book a Call

Your Mortgage Advisor

Joseph Kelley

Joseph Kelley

"Joe the Mortgage Giant"

NMLS# 1705850 · Company NMLS# 02052578

jkelley@gbmortgagegroup.com

916-612-4294

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3900 Lennane Dr Ste 200, Sacramento, CA 95834

916-612-4294

NMLS# 1705850 · Company NMLS# 02052578

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