Mortgages By Nikki · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Mortgage Market Update

Mortgages By Nikki

Mortgages By Nikki

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Hi there—it's your weekly mortgage note with practical insights for homeowners like you. This week we're talking about something you might not check very often but probably should.

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 Check

Do you know how much equity you've built?

If you've owned your home for a few years, you've likely built more equity than you realize. Equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe—and it can be a powerful financial tool. Whether you're thinking about refinancing, doing a home improvement project, or just curious about your net worth, knowing your equity number is the first step. The home values in many areas have shifted, which means your equity picture may have changed too. I'd be happy to help you figure out where you stand and what options might make sense for your situation.

Reach out and we can take a quick look at your equity and talk through what it means for you.

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 Mortgages By Nikki team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

M

Mortgages By Nikki

Mortgages By Nikki

team@mortgagesbynikki.com

You are receiving this from Mortgages By Nikki.  Unsubscribe