Scott Webster · August 1, 2026

Do you know your home equity number?

Mortgage Market Update

Scott Webster

Scott Webster

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Do you know your home equity number?

Hi there. Some of the most useful conversations I have with clients aren't about rates or new loans—they're about understanding what they already have.

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, there's a good chance you have more equity than you realize. Equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage—and it grows as you make payments and (often) as your home appreciates.

Why does this matter? That equity can open doors. Whether you're thinking about refinancing, making a major home improvement, or just want to understand your financial position, knowing your equity is the starting point. It's one of the easiest financial wins to overlook. If you'd like to get a quick snapshot of where you stand, I'm happy to help walk through it with you.

Reach out anytime—I can help you figure out what your equity means for your situation.

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 Scott Webster team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

S

Scott Webster

Scott Webster

Scott.Webster@BarrettFinancial.com

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