Chad Holsted · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Mortgage Market Update

Chad Holsted

Chad Holsted

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Home equity is one of the most powerful financial tools homeowners have—and most don't realize how much they've already built. This week, I want to walk you through why that number matters and what you can do with it.

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're likely sitting on more equity than you realize. Every mortgage payment builds it—and so do home values when they appreciate in your area. Your equity is real money, and it opens doors: you can tap it for a cash-out refinance, a home equity line of credit, or simply know you're building wealth month after month. Many borrowers have no idea where they stand. A quick equity check can show you exactly what you have to work with and whether it makes sense to explore options like refinancing or borrowing against that equity for home improvements or other goals.

If you'd like to know your home's current value and how much equity you've built, I'm happy to run those numbers 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 Chad Holsted team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

C

Chad Holsted

Chad Holsted

cholsted@xperthomelending.com

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