The Douglas Team · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Mortgage Market Update

The Douglas Team

The Douglas Team

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Hi there, this week I want to help you understand something that often goes overlooked: your home equity. Here's why it matters.

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 been paying your mortgage for a while, there's a good chance you have more equity in your home than you realize. Equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe—and it can open doors. Whether you're thinking about a cash-out refinance, a home equity line of credit, or just want to understand your financial position better, knowing your equity is the first step. Home values have shifted over the years, and so have your payments. A quick conversation can help you understand what you actually have to work with and whether any of these tools might make sense for your situation.

Let's take a look at your equity and talk through your options—no obligation.

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 The Douglas Team team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

T

The Douglas Team

The Douglas Team

Rebecca.douglas@mottomortgage.com

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