OHL · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Mortgage Market Update

OHL

OHL

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Hi there. This week I want to help you see what's really happening under the hood of your home investment.

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've likely built more equity than you realize. Every mortgage payment chips away at what you owe, and many homeowners have seen their home values appreciate too. That equity can be a powerful financial tool—it opens doors to refinancing, home equity loans, or even accessing cash when you need it. The tricky part is that most people don't actually know their number. A quick conversation with me can help you understand where you stand, what your equity means for your situation, and whether now might be a good time to make a move. I'm here to walk through it with you.

Give me a call or send a message if you'd like to talk through your equity position and what options might make sense 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 OHL team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

O

OHL

OHL

john@obrienhl.com

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