Karen Cely Chavez · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Mortgage Market Update

Karen Cely Chavez

Karen Cely Chavez

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Hi there. This week I want to talk about something a lot of homeowners overlook—and it could matter more than you think.

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

Do you know how much equity you've built?

Every mortgage payment you make builds equity in your home—that's the difference between what your house is worth and what you still owe. Over time, this becomes real wealth. But a lot of homeowners don't actually know their number, which means they might be sitting on an opportunity they haven't considered yet. Whether you're thinking about a home improvement project, helping a family member, or exploring other financial options, knowing your equity is the first step. It takes just a few minutes to figure out, and I'm happy to walk you through it.

Reach out and let me help you get a clear picture of where you stand.

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 Karen Cely Chavez team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

K

Karen Cely Chavez

Karen Cely Chavez

karen@strategicmortgageadvisors.com

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