CJ Cunningham · August 1, 2026

Do you know how much equity you have?

Mortgage Market Update

CJ Cunningham

CJ Cunningham

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Do you know how much equity you have?

Hello! This week I'm focusing on something many homeowners overlook: the equity they've built in their homes. Let me walk you through why it matters.

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 right now?

If you've owned your home for a few years, you're probably building equity faster than you realize. Every mortgage payment chips away at what you owe, and if your home's value has moved at all, that's another boost to your net worth. The reason this matters: equity is real money you can access. Whether you're thinking about a future purchase, home improvement, or just want to understand your financial picture, knowing your equity position is a smart first step. It can also open doors to different borrowing options down the road. If you're curious where you stand, I'd love to help you run the numbers and talk through what that equity might mean for your next move.

Reach out if you'd like to discuss your home's equity and what options might be available to 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 CJ Cunningham team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

C

CJ Cunningham

CJ Cunningham

cj@barrettfinancial.com

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