Alex Hernandez · August 27, 2026

How much equity do you actually have?

Mortgage Market Update

My Mortgage Company

Alex Hernandez

Thursday, August 27, 2026

How much equity do you actually have?

Hi there—this week I'm sharing something that often gets overlooked in conversations about homeownership. Your home equity is one of your most powerful financial assets, and understanding it can open doors you didn't know were there.

National Mortgage Rates · August 20, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.65%

FHA 30-Year

6.53%

VA 30-Year

6.32%

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.


Building Equity

Your home equity is a financial tool—here's how to use it

Most people think of equity as something that happens automatically over time, but the truth is you can be more intentional about it. Every mortgage payment builds equity, yes—but so do home improvements and, when rates and your situation align, refinancing to a shorter loan term. Having equity gives you options: a cushion if you need to sell, collateral for a home equity line, or flexibility down the road. The key is understanding where you stand. If you've owned your home for a few years, there's a good chance you have more equity than you realize. I'd like to help you figure out what that means for your goals, whether that's accessing funds for improvements, planning for the future, or simply knowing your net worth.

Let's talk about your equity and what makes sense for your situation.

Tip of the Week

Your mortgage interest may be tax-deductible if you itemize. Check with your tax professional to see if it benefits you.

Tips for Homeowners

Understanding Mortgage Points

1.

One mortgage point equals 1% of your loan amount. Paying points ("buying down the rate") reduces your interest rate — typically 0.25% per point, though this varies by lender and market.

2.

Calculate your break-even: divide the cost of the points by your monthly savings. If it takes 4 years to break even and you plan to stay 10 years, buying points makes sense.

3.

Points paid on a home purchase are generally tax-deductible in the year paid (if you itemize). Points on a refinance must be deducted over the life of the loan.

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the My Mortgage Company team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

M

My Mortgage Company

Alex Hernandez

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