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Mortgage Market Update
Michele de Vahle
Michele de Vahle
Saturday, August 1, 2026
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How much equity have you actually built? |
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Hi there—this week I want to remind you of something easy to forget: your mortgage is quietly working in your favor. Let me explain.
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National Mortgage Rates · July 30, 2026
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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.
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Equity Building
Your home is working for you—even when you sleep
Every mortgage payment you make builds equity in your home. That's money you're putting into an asset you own, not a landlord's pocket. Over time, as you pay down your loan balance and your home's value holds (or grows), that equity grows too. It's one of the most powerful wealth-building tools available to everyday homeowners. The sooner you understand how much equity you have, the sooner you can think strategically about what comes next—whether that's a renovation, a future move, or just peace of mind knowing your financial foundation is getting stronger. If you'd like to talk through your equity position or explore what options it might unlock, I'm here to walk you through it.
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Tip of the Week
Landscaping maintenance protects your home's value — overgrown yards are the number one curb appeal issue buyers notice.
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Tips for Homeowners
HOA Fees and How They Affect Your Mortgage
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1.
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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.
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2.
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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.
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3.
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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.
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Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Michele de Vahle team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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