E3 Home Loans · August 1, 2026

How much equity are you actually sitting on?

Mortgage Market Update

Chris Ristau

E3 Home Loans

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity are you actually sitting on?

Hi there. This week I want to help you take stock of something that might be quietly working for you.

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 chips away at what you owe, and if your home's value has held steady or grown, that's equity working in your favor. This matters because equity opens doors—whether you're thinking about refinancing, tapping into a home equity line, or just understanding your net worth. The tricky part is that most homeowners guess. A real assessment takes just a few minutes and can reveal options you didn't know you had. If you're curious where you stand, I'd be happy to walk you through it with no obligation.

Reach out and let's talk about what your equity means for your financial picture.

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 Chris Ristau team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

C

Chris Ristau

E3 Home Loans

team@e3loans.com

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