Edge Home Finance · August 1, 2026

Where your mortgage payment actually goes

Mortgage Market Update

Angela Carter

Edge Home Finance

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Where your mortgage payment actually goes

Hi—this week I want to talk about something that affects every homeowner's finances but rarely gets explained clearly.

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 of your mortgage goes to principal?

A lot of borrowers don't realize how their monthly payment splits between principal and interest—especially in the early years of a loan. When you're just starting out, most of your payment covers interest, and only a smaller portion chips away at what you actually owe on the home. As time goes on, that ratio flips. Understanding this matters because it affects how fast you're building real equity, whether refinancing makes sense, and what your home's value means to your financial picture. If you've been in your home for a while, you might be surprised how much principal you've already paid down. I'd be happy to walk through your specific loan and show you exactly where you stand.

Reach out anytime—I can pull together a quick equity snapshot for your home.

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 Angela Carter team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

A

Angela Carter

Edge Home Finance

info@angieknowsloans.com

972-900-2134

972-900-2134  |  www.AngieKnowsLoans.com

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